Lagos youth urged to explore opportunities in film, fashion, arts
The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, has urged Nigerian youth, especially those residing in Lagos, to explore the growing opportunities in the state’s creative economy rather than seeking greener pastures abroad.
She made this appeal during a private screening of the Nollywood movie Eko Miami, produced by AWNETWORK, at Silverbird Cinemas in Victoria Island, Lagos, on Tuesday. The Commissioner emphasized that young Nigerians have the talent and potential to thrive within the country, particularly in Lagos, which she described as the creative capital of Africa.
Benson-Awoyinka stressed that the youth must contribute to nation-building instead of giving up on the country. “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 said.
According to her, the movie Eko Miami reflects the message that with resilience and creativity, Nigerian youth can achieve their dreams at home. She encouraged them to take advantage of various state government initiatives targeting film, fashion, digital content, and the wider arts and culture sector.
Also speaking at the screening, the movie’s producer, Mr. Adebola Williams, said Lagos remains fertile ground for creative and innovative minds. He encouraged young people to invest in their talents rather than fleeing the country. “There are numerous opportunities in Lagos for people in the creative industry—opportunities that are often ignored or underexplored by the youth,” he noted.
Williams added that Eko Miami is not just entertainment, but a movement to reignite belief in the Nigerian dream. He said the film aims to remind young Nigerians that they can turn their dreams into reality within their homeland.
The film is scheduled for nationwide release across all Silverbird Cinemas in November 2025. It promises to deliver a powerful narrative that blends cultural depth, compelling storytelling, and a message of empowerment.
The event drew key figures from the arts and culture community, creative industry stakeholders, youth leaders, and government officials. Beyond the film preview, the screening served as a platform to promote the creative sector as a tool for youth empowerment and national rebranding.
