Nigerian Creative Industry Desperately Needs a Makeover, Says Sanya, MTN Foundation Boss

“There is an artist in everyone, we must all come together to show that to the world, no one will tell our stories if we don’t.” Those words resonated in the room after Odunayo Sanya’s presentation at the monthly Point of View series hosted by the Ben Enwonwu Foundation at Alliance Francaise, Ikoyi Lagos. 

The Acting Executive Secretary of the MTN Foundation encouraged everyone present to play a more active role in the creative industry as it an opportunity for us to share our stories with the world. 

The event which held on February 26, 2020 is the fifth edition of the Point of View series, an initiative designed in collaboration with the Society of Nigerian Artists to highlight the evolving role of the creative industry and address major issues affecting Africa by raising awareness and inspiring action.

This month’s edition themed Funding for the Visual Arts: Public and Private Sector Partnership saw other thought leaders and professionals like Cynthia Nwuka, Group Head, Creative Industry, Bank of Industry; Femi Akinsanya, Chairman, First Ally Capital, and Jubril Enakele, Managing Director, Iron Capital as panelists at the event.

The event was a gathering of established and emerging artists, designers, curators, financiers and policymakers who wanted to build networks,  provide mentoring opportunities,  and possibly find ways to seek financing and collaborate on different projects.

Keynote speaker at the event, Odunayo Sanya, Executive Secretary, MTN Foundation spoke about the need for the company to continually support arts and culture causes in the country.

“The effects of arts in any society multiplies greatly, we at MTN are committed to keeping each person connected, and not just in terms of technology; we want to connect you to your history, culture, and traditions as well. Arts are an important part of all this and that is why we support such causes,” Sanya said.

The Point of View series draws from other creative disciplines and aims to impact policy by raising awareness and advocating for change.

It further aims to encourage support and funding for visual artists through public and private sector partnerships while ensuring continuing artists’ professional development and empowerment.