An emerging gospel artist, Yemisi Atteh, has called on the federal government and the private sector to set up an investment fund for the development of emerging artists in the country.
Atteh made the call in Abuja, during a live worship/video recording to celebrate her 40th birthday.
She described the entertainment industry as a “job spinning machine” for Nigerian youths.
She pointed out that the creative industry was a game changer for many Nigerian youths who have become global celebrities.
She, however, said that the country’s entertainment and media sector was still fragmented and poorly financed.
Atteh also identified poor domestic and international marketing and distribution channels and dearth of technical and creative training as other challenges affecting the growth of the sector.
“As a result, most players in the Nigerian entertainment and media space have stayed at the artisan level, unorganised and unable to muster the courage and energy to tap into continental and global opportunities.
“It is very pertinent, therefore, that the government and the private sector urgently come to the aid of this sector by setting up an investment fund for the grooming and development of our young emerging artists,” he said.
Atteh, a graduate of English Literature from Ahmadu Bello University, said that Nigerian youths with relatively low backgrounds have joined the entertainment industry and stunned the world.
She said that Nigerian artists such as Burna Boy, Asake, Ruger, Seyi Vibes, Ayra Starr, Rema, and Tems among others were currently making exploits in the entertainment space around the world.
In gospel music where Atteh was making a debut, stars of global repute like Solomon Lange, Sinachi, Mercy Chinwo, Adah, Ehi, Judikay, and Adele among others were equally opening new grounds.
She said that Nigeria has the potential to become the biggest entertainment market in Africa by value, considering its population and youthful demography.
According to her, the investment fund, if established, will go a long way in grooming young talented artists to make the best out of the creative talents. (NAN)
