By Chukwudi Obasi, Abuja
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has described Nigeria’s creative sector as the country’s second-largest employer of labour, with the potential to generate millions of new jobs shortly.
He made the assertion yesterday in Abuja while opening a public hearing on the Bill seeking to establish the National Institute for Film and Media Technology in Ukawu, Ebonyi State.
Represented by Amos Magaji, who represents the Zangon Kataf/Jaba Federal Constituency, Abbas said the sector could create up to 2.7 million additional jobs by 2025, underscoring its role as a key driver of economic growth.
“I understand that the creative sector is the second-largest employer of labour in the country and has the potential to create an additional 2.7 million jobs by 2025,” he said.
He added that the creative economy contributes significantly to global output: “Worldwide, the creative economy accounts for over 6.1 per cent of global GDP, averaging between 2 and 7 per cent of national GDPS.”
Nkem Kama, who represents the Ohanivo Federal Constituency of Ebonyi State, presented the bill under consideration. Abbas said the proposal aligns with the House’s Legislative Agenda, which prioritises reforming and modernising Nigeria’s technical education system.
He stressed the need to equip students with practical skills that would enable them to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy and contribute meaningfully to national development.
“We are committed to integrating entrepreneurship modules into technical and vocational education curricula to empower students to venture into private enterprise and become self-reliant,” the Speaker said.
Abbas further emphasised the need to incorporate emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence, robotics, and renewable energy—into Nigeria’s education system, especially in technical and vocational training.
He warned that Nigeria must not lag in equipping the younger generation with essential skills for the future.
“We must not be found wanting in fulfilling our responsibilities,” he said. “We would have failed if we did not give our children the tools they need to realise their full potential and live fulfilled lives.”
“The world is rushing with Artificial Intelligence. We cannot afford to be left behind. Education remains the bedrock of development, and the need for institutions that build skills should have been addressed long ago.”
Also speaking at the event, Fatoba Olusola, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, National Orientation, Ethics and Values, emphasised the importance of investing in the film and media sector.
He noted that the industry has the capacity to engage Nigeria’s teeming youth and stimulate broader economic growth.
“The film and media sector can take many young people off the streets while contributing significantly to our economy,” Olusola said.
