By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Federal Government has called for international support to enhance the Arewa entertainment sector, highlighting its potential as a multi-billion-dollar industry and a key driver of economic growth.

This appeal was made during the Arewa Turn Up 2.0 event in Abuja over the weekend. Organised by Rahama Sadau and Ali Jita, the event aimed to showcase northern Nigeria’s indigenous talent, promote its cultural heritage, and highlight the region’s tourism potential.

Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, emphasised the need for international organisations and financial institutions to support the sector. He noted that the entertainment industry is a global economic powerhouse, and Nigeria must harness its potential to create opportunities for its youth.

Idris commended the organisers of Arewa Turn Up 2.0 and urged stakeholders in the northern entertainment industry to unite and replicate the success of similar events in the south.

Represented by Jibrin Ndace, Director General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), he stated, “Entertainment is a major industry, a multi-billion-pound sector worldwide, and Nigeria is no exception. In line with President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda, the government is focused on creating opportunities for Nigerians in the creative industry.”

Ali Nuhu, a prominent Kannywood star and head of the Nigerian Film Corporation, highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering creativity among Nigerian youth. He outlined upcoming initiatives, including training programmes and post-training empowerment schemes.

Nuhu stressed that the government’s presence at the event demonstrated its dedication to supporting youth and the creative sector.

“We have a series of activities to ensure the youth are gainfully employed, including training programmes and immediate empowerment after training. These initiatives will be implemented in the coming months, showing the government’s commitment to the youth,” he said.

The Arewa Turn Up 2.0 event featured live performances by renowned entertainers from northern Nigeria, showcasing the region’s vibrant music, culture, and lifestyle.

Organisers described it as a platform to elevate indigenous talent and promote Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage globally.

Ali Jita, co-organiser of the event, stated, “Arewa Turn Up 2.0 was conceived to support indigenous talents in the entertainment and creative industry while exposing the world to the tourism potential and expressive nature of Arewa music, culture, and lifestyle as a vehicle for change and development.”