Ayade Committed To Building Cross River Creative Sector – Emmanuel Etim, SSA Creative Economy

By Obeten Godfrey and Philip Agba

The Senior Special Adviser to Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River on Creative and Knowledge Economy, Mr. Emmanual Etim has said that the state government has recognized the potentials in the creative sector and is committed to maximizing them.

According to remarks he gave at a creative sector workshop organized by the British Council Friday in Calabar, this is evident in the creation of the Department of Creative and Knowledge Economy which Mr. Etim described as the first step.

The event tagged “Creative Hustle” was organized in partnership with Mr. Etim’s Department and he pledged to do all within his power to ensure the sector not only thrives but becomes profitable for the players.

He averred that the Creative Hustle platform was a platform where “creatives” connect and meet like minds, non creatives, as well as learn their roles and see the opportunities for them in the industry.

The project manager, arts and creative industry in the British Council, Ms. Uju Dubas-Agbasi, in her remarks said she felt happy working with young persons and hoped that a good number of those present at the event will “walk out transformed.”

She added that one of the aims of the Creative Hustle Project is to: “Redefine the opportunities that abound in the creative industry and who best to talk to than the young ones.”

Speakers at the event included the Chief Executive Officer of FAD Group, Fidelis Duker, Sandra Itu who founded Leyisuh, a fashion outfit and Braide Opubo, a sound engineer.

Mr. Duker advised the youths present to see the opportunities in the industry and try to learn the ropes by starting from the bottom.

Ms. Itu advised young persons present to read up on the leaders of their industry. She also stated that the creative industry knows no bounds as music, fashion and crafts produced in the country have made their way to the other lands where they are standing on their own.

While Mr. Braide advised young persons in the industry to take advantage of the vast knowledge that abounds on the internet to expand their skills and get certification.