Abuja: The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, has revealed that the creative sector in Nigeria stands as the second largest employer of labor for the country's citizens. Abbas made this announcement in Abuja during the opening of a public hearing on a bill aimed at establishing the National Institute for Film and Media Technology in Ukawu, Ebonyi.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the public hearing was a significant step towards passing the Bill, which was presented by Rep. Osi Nkemkamma of the Ohanivo Federal Constituency in Ebonyi. Emphasizing its alignment with the Legislative Agenda, Abbas highlighted the House's commitment to reforming Nigeria's technical education system, ensuring that students are equipped with skills vital for the contemporary economy.
Abbas outlined the global impact of the creative economy, which contributes over 6.1 percent to the global GDP, and noted that it accounts for between 2 percent and 7 percent of national GDPs worldwide. He expressed optimism about the sector's potential to generate an additional 2.7 million jobs within Nigeria, bolstering the economy significantly.
He further emphasized the importance of integrating emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, robotics, and renewable energy into Nigeria's technical and vocational education curriculum. Abbas stressed the importance of not failing the younger generation by equipping them with the necessary skills to thrive and contribute to the nation's economic growth.
Rep. Fatoba Olusola, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, National Orientation, Ethics, and Values, also underscored the importance of investing in the film and media sector. He stated that this sector has the potential to engage the youth and promote economic growth.
Various stakeholders from the information and media industry attended the public hearing, including the Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria, Malam Ali M. Ali, represented by Deputy Editor in Chief Ismail Abdulaziz. The bill under discussion aims to provide job-specific and practical training using modern skill development methods, aligning with industry best practices. It outlines the functions, powers, staff structure, and financial provisions necessary to establish a world-class institution dedicated to film and media technology.
(NAN)