First Lady of Kwara State, Her Excellency, Professor Mrs. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, delivered a compelling keynote addressing women’s contributions and challenges.
The First Lady emphasized inclusive growth and innovation, highlighting initiatives like Kwara State Film Village and Women’s Economic Empowerment Policy. She urged stakeholders to collaborate in empowering women and advancing sustainable growth across Africa’s creative industries.
We must create more opportunities for women—not only in traditional industries but also across sectors like technology, film, and fashion,” she emphasized. Additionally, the First Lady highlighted the #WeeLiftNigeria campaign, supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, to empower women economically.
“Building on these themes, Latasha Onwuve, a renowned journalist and media personality, furthermore stressed the urgent need for sustainable structures supporting women in the creative economy.” “We’re at a tipping point,” she said. “Women are no longer just contributors to the creative industries—they are leaders and innovators. But to maintain this momentum, we need policies that ensure access to funding, training, and fair representation.”
Tiwalola Medubi, Managing Director of Livespot 360, shared her perspective on the importance of fostering connections across disciplines, regions, and expertise levels. “Collaboration is the lifeblood of the creative economy,” she noted. “From fashion working hand-in-hand with technology to filmmakers collaborating with global platforms, the possibilities are endless when we connect tides.”
Medubi also outlined the ambitious goals of Entertainment Week Lagos, aiming to elevate Nigeria’s creative sector and, consequently, contribute $100 billion to the economy by 2030.
One of the recurring themes was the need for intentional mentorship and investment in emerging female talent. Panelists discussed the successes of initiatives such as Labspot, Livespot Foundation’s program designed to nurture small creative businesses. Highlighting mentorship’s impact, Medubi stated, “If no seat is offered, build your own—and make it inclusive for others.”
The session also celebrated the achievements of women who have successfully navigated the challenges of the creative economy, such as Funke Akindele, a trailblazer in Nigeria’s film industry. Her journey exemplifies how resilience, creativity, and strategic partnerships can transform personal dreams into global movements.
As the conversation concluded, panelists urged harnessing women’s collective power to build an inclusive, innovative, and sustainable creative economy.
Entertainment Week Lagos continues to be a vital platform for amplifying these voices and fostering collaborations that drive real change.
“The future of the creative economy is female—and the tide is rising.”
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