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Creativity, innovation vital for nation-building, says Adeleke

By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has highlighted creativity and innovation as essential pillars for nation-building.

Speaking during a conference at the SDG Creative Centre in Iragbiji, Osun State, on Tuesday, Adeleke reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering a sustainable future for the youth, emphasizing their role as the leaders of tomorrow.

The governor stressed the importance of the creative economy in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

“One key step forward in this journey is the launch of the Osun State Content Creation Studio, a collaborative initiative with private sector stakeholders.

“This studio will act as a hub for creators, providing the tools, resources, and space necessary for them to realize their ideas. It will empower filmmakers, digital storytellers, fashion designers, musicians, and other creatives to tell their stories, amplify their voices, and tackle societal challenges.

“But this is more than just a space for creation; it marks a significant step toward achieving the SDGs. Our vision is for Osun State to become a place where culture meets innovation, tradition meets progress, and creativity drives sustainable development,” Adeleke said.

He praised Osun State’s rich heritage, citing cultural landmarks like the sacred Osun-Osogbo Grove—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and festivals such as the Olojo Festival and Sango Ede Festival.

“Osun is a melting pot for creative talent, where ideas flourish and innovation thrives,” he added.

Dr. Bala Yusuf Yunusa, Senior Technical Advisor at the Presidency (OSSAP-SDGs), commended the initiative, expressing optimism about the potential of Osun’s creative industry.

“We aim to unleash the creativity Osun is known for. Our cultural heritage is globally recognized. Over the years, people from around the world have come to experience our arts, visit the Osun Grove, and attend festivals like Osun Osogbo and Olojo.

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“By bringing together content creators, filmmakers, musicians, and fashion designers, we can elevate Osun’s profile as a global cultural hub. Yoruba culture is already prominent worldwide—from Brazil to Ivory Coast. We need to harness that influence, promote our culture, and boost our GDP through creativity,” Yunusa said.

He added that federal and state governments, alongside development partners, are working together to empower youth and harness their potential.

Bamikole Omisore, Special Adviser on Sustainable Development Goals and Multilateral Relations to Governor Adeleke, praised Osun’s dedication to the SDGs.

“What is happening in Osun is a sub-national conference focused on linking the creative economy’s potential to the achievement of the SDGs,” Omisore said.

He noted the state’s establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Creative Economy, Culture, and Tourism to drive this vision.

“The creative economy has vast potential for job creation, decent work, and youth empowerment. By fostering creativity and innovation, we can unlock these opportunities and enable our youth to achieve their full potential,” Omisore concluded.

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Creativity, innovation vital for nation-building, says Adeleke

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