Nigeria’s Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy has shown keen interest in forging a partnership with Mad House UNILAG, owned by Tikera Africa. The aim is to foster the development of emerging talents in lens-based media, visual arts, and the craft window.
Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, conveyed this intent following a visit to the art hub located within the University of Lagos by the lagoon over the weekend.
Musawa expressed delight in the creativity exhibited in establishing the hub, noting that its vision aligns with that of the Ministry. She commended the founder of Mad House, Bayo Omoboriowo, a renowned celebrity photographer and arts manager who also served as the photographer for former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“I am really impressed with what you have done here, which is similar to our vision of what we want to do with incubators and the hubs. Since you have already done this, we can talk on how to align our visions,” remarked Musawa.
“We want to take these hubs and incubators not only to the zones but to every state of the federation and in every senatorial district. This will play a big role in reducing insecurity, creating jobs and building on the creativity that Nigeria already has,” she added.
Omoboriowo, sharing his early experiences as a budding photographer and the challenges that shaped his journey, emphasised the importance of transferring intelligence to the minds of young creatives. He envisioned the creative economy as a catalyst for change in Nigeria when empowered individuals own their voice, art, and mind.
Professor Duro Oni, a partner of Mad House and a creative arts professor for over 40 years, thanked the minister for her visit and pledged support for the ministry in advancing the arts and creative economy of Nigeria.
According to Bayo Omoboriowo, the founder, MAD House serves as a creative incubation space designed to nurture raw talents and innovative ideas for products and industries.