In recent times, Nigeria has grappled with a diminishing international image, facing travel bans and cautionary advisories from various countries. Amid political instability and economic challenges, the nation’s perception problem has raised concerns among public relations professionals. The lack of a cohesive approach to manage this issue has resulted not only in travel restrictions but also prompted calls for engaging skilled PR professionals for effective nation branding.
Further emphasizing Nigeria’s need for strategic interventions, in 2023, the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) established the ‘Brand Nigeria’ committee, aimed at elevating the country’s image by promoting key sectors, such as the entertainment industry, that have the potential to showcase Nigeria’s unique strengths on the global stage.
A powerful contender to reshape Nigeria’s international perception is Entertainment Week Lagos (EWL), a cultural and entertainment extravaganza hosted annually in Lagos, Nigeria. Beyond a local event, EWL has emerged as a vital catalyst for transforming Nigeria’s international perception. It is not just an entertainment spectacle but a transformative hub with a far-reaching impact on Nigeria’s creative landscape.
Spearheaded by Mrs. Deola Art Alade, entrepreneur and Group CEO of Livespot360, Entertainment Week Lagos 2023, organized by Livespot Foundation, concluded with a spectacular showcase comprising 30 insightful panel discussions, 80 distinguished speakers, 150 captivating showcases, 50 enriching masterclasses, nearly 50 compelling short films, and a remarkable gathering of over 10,000 attendees.
This eight-day extravaganza, which focuses on talent development, technology integration, and infrastructure improvement, brought together a diverse range of entertainment experiences, leaving attendees captivated by its blend of insightful panels and valuable masterclasses.
The 2023 edition also recorded a large convergence of professionals from diverse creative sectors, boasting an attendee list that included dignitaries like Minister Hannatu Musawa, responsible for Art, Culture, and the creative economy. Renowned figures from the entertainment and creative industries, such as Mo Abudu, Steve Stoute, Chioma Ude, Jade Osiberu, Mai Atafo, Titi Ogufere, FK Abudu, Kem Anyanwu, Tolu Ogunlesi, Eku Edewor, Deji Awokoya, Sam Onyemelukwe, Banke Kuku, Kelvin Sapp, Stephen Tayo, Craze Clown, Nasboi, Kemen, Dr. Busola Tejumola, Nicole Asinugo, Ifeoluwapo Koleowo, Conphidance, Susan Younis, Jenni Frank, Diana Eneje and many others, added to the illustrious gathering.
Debuted in 2022 with the visionary goal of bridging the local and global gaps in music, film, fashion, tech, and more, the inaugural event, themed ‘The New Wave,’ unfolded as an 8-day spectacle from December 11th to 18th. It successfully established Lagos as a burgeoning epicenter for top-class entertainment.
The driving force behind EWL is to stimulate investment and interest in the African entertainment industry. Livespot Foundation, through EWL, aims to create a catalyst for real, sustainable change within the entertainment sector, fostering socio-economic development for the continent. The platform serves as a convergence point for global industry stakeholders, promoting collaboration, networking, ideation, showcasing, and knowledge exchange.
Entertainment Week Lagos also revolves around key themes, each representing a crucial aspect of the entertainment industry. These include exploring emerging technologies and trends, elevating the business acumen of professionals, empowering the next generation of professionals, unlocking growth, innovation, and investment for startups and entrepreneurs, addressing social issues through entertainment, and showcasing up-and-coming talent across various disciplines.
The event comprises various elements, such as ‘The Circle’ – a knowledge exchange community, ‘Labspot’ – an avenue for acquiring skills and practical experience, exhibitions, live cafes, a deal room for pitching and negotiating, a film hub, and themed nights like EWL @ Night.
Responding to the brain drain and the departure of Nigeria’s youth and skilled workforce, EWL 2023 aimed to provide opportunities for tech enthusiasts, fashion designers, filmmakers, rising entertainment stars, artists, change-makers, and thought leaders. By engaging with top-notch speakers, educators, and A-list artists, the event sought to address the skills gap in the country.
Mrs. Deola Art Alade, the CEO of Livespot360, highlighted EWL as an ideal platform for Nigeria’s vibrant youth to enhance their skills and gain insights from entertainment experts. Emphasizing the power of entertainment to address real-life issues and make a positive impact, she expressed the belief that entertainment has the potential to drive positive change, close the skills gap, empower the next generation, and foster growth and innovation.
Entertainment Week Lagos 2023 showcased rising stars in music, film, fashion, dance, content, and comedy. The event included various activities such as the EWL Launch Party, Workshops, Showcases, Lab Spot Incubator, Film Hub, The Circle, Deal Room, EWL Brunch, Live Cafe, Exhibition, EWL @Night, Gen Z Republik, and Club X.
Livespot Foundation’s holistic vision aligns with fostering a vibrant, interconnected creative community, making Entertainment Week Lagos an enduring initiative with a lasting impact on the cultural and economic fabric of Nigeria and poised to be a national imperative for the entire country.