Nigeria is proud of its Arts and Entertainment Industry as talented citizens continue to show and exceed world-class performance standards. Vice President Yemi Osinbajo stated this while receiving the cast of Wakaa: The Musical on Friday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. He said that the industry has proved clearly that “without anybody, even government coming to their aid, they can hold their own.” But that the Buhari led government would lend its support in “whatever way we are able.”
Professional Performance
Professor Osinbajo recalled that he had seen some of the performances of the group, and that it was absolutely amazing and extremely professional. The Vice President commended the work of Nigerian actors, artists and performances especially in the creative industry.
“We don’t even need to compare ourselves. The Nigerian entertainment industry is in a class by itself. Absolutely incredible, real talent. There is no real comparison what our people are doing,” Professor Osinbajo added.
Speaking earlier, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Minister of Information and Culture, noted the Wakaa Musical performance, which has been staged in several places including London, was writing the name of Nigeria in gold, all over the world.
Alhaji Mohammed said that the President Muhammadu Buhari led government recognises and applauds the success of the country’s creative industry.
He said that government’s diversification of the economy was not restricted to the agriculture and solid minerals sectors but includes the creative industry where Nigeria also has a comparative advantage.
The Wakaa cast was led by Producer and Director Bolanle Austen-Peters, an actor, Bimbo Manuel. Austen-Peters commended the Vice President for receiving the group, noting that such gesture at short notice was very encouraging. Vice President Osinbajo has been invited as Special Guest of Honour at a Command Performance of Wakaa on October 2, 2017, during the grand finale of the 9-day performance of the musical in Abuja.
Wakaa: The Musical is a play about the trials, successes and experiences of 6 young graduates with varied backgrounds, revealing the struggles and challenges of young Nigerians at home and abroad. It is a production of BAPS Productions.
