Invest in theatre, take Nigeria out of recession – NANTAP

From Nurudeen Oyewole, Lagos

The National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) has appealed to the Federal Government and corporate organisations to pay attention to the development of the theatre industry, as doing so is capable of lifting the country out of economic recession.

NANTAP Interim National President, Thespian Israel Eboh made the appeal at a press briefing organised to commemorate the World Theatre Day in Lagos.

According to Eboh, even with individual efforts, the entertainment industry has been growing because it has a wider appeal across the world. He said if government and corporate bodies should complement such individual efforts by way of interventions, more youths will be employed and the country can survive its current economic recession.

“The Nigerian entertainment industry, of which theatre is a major player, has become an industry with a wide appeal across the globe. In the last few years, the Nigerian theatre through mostly individual efforts of artistes, has experienced a rise in profile in both economic and entrepreneurial terms.

“Productions such as Saro, Waka, Heatbeat, Hear Word and Kakadu have captivated and enthralled audiences around the world. These productions and several others are becoming our response to the Sikulus and Lion Kings. Indeed, we cannot but celebrate ourselves for all we have achieved through hard work and ingenious creativity.

“If we must overcome recession, we must recognise the place of theatre and the whole entertainment industry as an alternative revenue generating source. Theatre will not only boost the economy but create jobs for the many youths roaming the streets,” the NANTAP Interim Chair said.

The regulatory body however applauded the commitment of the Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, to developing the entertainment industry, especially his decision to build theatres across the state.

“His massive investments in infrastructural development in building theatres across the state has confirmed what we have always posited, that the sector has suffered due to lack of will on the part of successive governments,” he said.