Nigeria's National Theatre Brings Creative Summit to Kano

Nigeria's creative economy just got more inclusive. The National Theatre held its Creative Summit in Kano this week, marking the first time the event has taken place outside Lagos.

The two-day program connects filmmakers, artists, and performers with funding opportunities, financial training, and business skills. For years, these resources have been concentrated in major cities, leaving talented creatives in other regions struggling to access the support they need to thrive.

Kano earned its place as the inaugural host city. Home to Kannywood, one of Nigeria's major film industries, the city has a rich history in performing and visual arts that stretches back centuries.

"The summit exists because that same energy and creativity live in every corner of this country, not only in Lagos," said Tola Akerele, CEO of the National Theatre. She explained that bringing the program to Kano wasn't an afterthought but a recognition of what the city has always contributed to Nigeria's creative life.

The sessions tackled real-world challenges facing creative professionals. Audu Maikori, Chairman of Chocolate City Group, taught participants how to protect their work through intellectual property rights, emphasizing that most creatives lose their rights by never documenting their work properly in the first place.

Bayo Omoboriowo from Madhouse by Tikera Africa focused on financial structures that attract investors. He framed sound business practices as essential before seeking funding, not something to figure out afterward.

Edward Israel-Ayide closed the opening day with a powerful message about visibility. "Decisions about your career are made in rooms you are not in," he told the crowd. "Your reputation is the version of you that shows up when you don't."

The Ripple Effect

This summit represents something bigger than a single event. By deliberately choosing regions outside Lagos, the National Theatre is reshaping who gets access to opportunity in Nigeria's creative economy.

The program is supported by the European Union, iDICE, and Kano State Government. It forms part of a national effort to position the creative sector as a driver of economic growth across the entire country, not just its largest cities.

Kano's creative community now has the tools and connections that can transform local talent into national and international success.