‘Don’t leave Nigeria, create your dreams here’ — Lagos commissioner urges youth
The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, has urged Nigerian youth, particularly in Lagos, to explore the vast opportunities in the State’s creative economy instead of seeking greener pastures abroad.
She made the call during a private screening of the Nollywood film Eko Miami, produced by AWNETWORK, held at Silverbird Cinemas, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Tuesday.
Benson-Awoyinka said young Nigerians must contribute to nation-building, stressing that leaving the country is not the only path to success. “The youth should be part of the production and development of this country. Leaving Nigeria does not necessarily equate to making it in life,” she stated.
She described Eko Miami as an inspirational film that shows how resilience and creativity can help young people thrive, especially in Lagos, which she called the cultural and creative capital of Africa.
The Commissioner urged youth both at home and abroad to leverage state-backed initiatives aimed at empowering talents in arts, culture, fashion, film, and digital content creation.
The film’s producer, Mr. Adebola Williams, echoed her sentiments, stressing that Lagos remains fertile ground for innovation and creativity. He said many opportunities in the creative industry are often ignored by youth seeking to leave the country.
Williams noted that Eko Miami is more than entertainment — it is a movement to reignite belief in the Nigerian dream. “The true power of life is when your dreams come to life—and they can, right here in Nigeria,” he said.
The movie, scheduled for nationwide release in November 2025, was previewed before a select audience of cultural figures, government officials, and youth leaders, reaffirming the creative industry’s role in economic growth and national rebranding.
