Federal Government strengthens intellectual property protection and finance access for the creative industry in Lagos.
Vice President Kashim Shettima announced that the Federal Government is strengthening intellectual property protection and widening access to finance for creative industries. The initiative aims to position Nigeria to lead creative trade across the African continent under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, Shettima delivered the remarks at the opening of the Creative Africa Nexus Weekend 2026, held at the newly designated Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts in Lagos. The four-day event runs from November 5 to November 8, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
The high-level gathering is hosted by the Federal Government and organized by the African Export-Import Bank under the guiding theme of cultural unity and global creation. Government officials, international ministers, and thousands of delegates convened to capitalize on the economic potential of African arts, media, and digital content.
Intellectual property policy and digital trade
Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Dr Jumoke Oduwole detailed recent policy steps taken by the administration to secure intellectual property rights. The Federal Executive Council approved the country's first national intellectual property policy and strategy in November 2025.
In addition, Nigeria emerged as co-champion of the AfCFTA Protocol on Digital Trade in February 2025. Oduwole noted that registration for the Lagos event reached 17,000 participants, reflecting unprecedented interest in the domestic creative economy.
Unlocking multi-million dollar financing
The Federal Government, operating through the Office of the Vice President and the Bank of Industry, is unlocking over $600 million in financing for digital and creative enterprises. This funding flows directly through the IDICE programme designed to empower young professionals.
Afreximbank President Dr George Elombi stated that the bank has committed $2 billion to Africa's creative industries through 2027. Elombi emphasized that the core challenge for the continent remains value capture, noting that Africa's creative economy is currently valued at roughly $60 billion.
Lagos preps for major continental events
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu welcomed delegates to the commercial capital and confirmed that the city is fully prepared to host upcoming continental showcases. Sanwo-Olu urged young creatives to register, protect, and properly price their intellectual property.
The CANEX Weekend programme features vital components including the CANEX Deal Room, a Creative Economy Finance Summit, and a Legends Football Match at Onikan Stadium. Officials hope these sessions will surpass the $540 million in deals recorded at the previous Algiers edition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creative Africa Nexus Weekend 2026?
The Creative Africa Nexus Weekend 2026 is a four-day event hosted by the Nigerian government and organized by Afreximbank in Lagos to boost African creative trade under AfCFTA.
How much financing is available for Nigerian creative enterprises?
The Federal Government is unlocking over $600 million through the IDICE programme, while Afreximbank has committed $2 billion to Africa's creative sector through 2027.
What did Vice President Kashim Shettima announce in Lagos?
Vice President Kashim Shettima announced that the Federal Government is strengthening intellectual property protection and expanding finance access to position Nigeria as a leader in creative trade.
