Stakeholders have called on Nigerians with media influence to leverage their platforms as powerful tools to build the country positively, emphasizing the importance of technology and innovation. This call to action was made on Thursday at a program organized by the Africa Leadership Group (ALG) as part of its Nigeria Leadership Series. Hosted by Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, the president of ALG and lead pastor of Trinity House Church, Lagos, the event was themed “The Role of Media & The Creatives in National Development.”
The guest speaker was Mr. Joseph Edgar, the founder of the Duke of Shomolu Foundation, a leading theatre production company. In his speech, Edgar, fondly known as the Duke of Shomolu, highlighted the urgent need for socially conscious individuals who understand the country’s pressing issues to assume leadership positions. “It is not enough to dwell on social influence alone; we need those with powerful media and entertainment industry influence among the youth,” he said.
Edgar criticized the current leadership for failing to fulfill its potential, stating, “Leadership is dead in Nigeria. Since I was a child, I have been hearing about potential leadership, yet it remains unfulfilled. Our generation has failed this country, which is why we see octogenarians in government.” He expressed optimism about the younger generation, particularly the “GenZ generation,” who understand entrepreneurship and technology.
Edgar noted that the GenZ demographic is not waiting for paid employment but instead is innovating to create their opportunities. He emphasized that media, technology, entertainment, and fashion are now the global financial engines, replacing oil. “The government needs to provide security for the entertainment industry, and we are good to go,” Edgar stated. He underscored the need for individuals to take responsibility, as the government struggles with accountability and financial stability.
Supporting Edgar’s position, other speakers at the event, including Leke Alder and Mrs. Yemisi Kuti, stressed the importance of media education and the role of social media in shaping the future. Alder pointed out that traditional media is no longer the primary source of news, as social media platforms now break news faster and reach wider audiences. He called for strategic planning and education to move the country forward.
Kuti, a veteran activist, encouraged the younger generation to continue voicing their concerns and taking action. “This generation has been courageous enough to articulate issues as they are. They must now form a strong network and carry the government along,” she said.
Mr. Sunday, a contributor from New York, emphasized the need for political and social management among the youth. He urged them to amplify Nigeria’s positive aspects rather than portraying it negatively.
In his address, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo highlighted the potential of digital media and content creation in Nigeria. He noted that the digital media sector is rapidly growing, with significant income being generated through brand partnerships and monetized content. “Nigeria has over 104 million internet users, providing a vast audience for digital media and content creators,” Ighodalo said.
However, he acknowledged the challenges facing the media and creative industries, including inadequate funding, piracy, lack of infrastructure, and regulatory constraints. He called for supportive policies, investment, and capacity-building initiatives to address these issues.
The event concluded with a collective agreement on the need for immediate action from both individuals and the government to harness the power of media and innovation for national development.
