Terra Academy demands tax relief and enhanced security to help young creatives build sustainable businesses.

The Terra Academy for the Arts has urged the Federal and state governments to tackle insecurity and introduce tax rebates for young entrepreneurs. Academy Lead Joseph Umoibom made the call during the Ogun Women Entrepreneurship Development Programme in Abeokuta, according to information published by punchng.

Organised in conjunction with the Mastercard Foundation at the June 12 Cultural Centre, the event brought together hundreds of participants. The initiative aims to equip young women with vital entrepreneurial knowledge, mentorship, and business support to scale their enterprises.

Insecurity remains a major barrier to business growth, particularly within the creative sector where operators often travel during unconventional hours. Umoibom stressed that safety must remain a top priority for any government aiming to foster economic development, according to information published by punchng.

Insecurity and Tax Burdens on Startups

Umoibom noted that young business owners often face excessive tax demands before their ventures even find stable footing. He advocated for targeted tax rebates to help fledgling companies survive the challenging economic landscape in Nigeria.

Speaking on safety concerns, he explained that creatives frequently need to move around at night. Without adequate security measures, citizens remain skeptical about venturing out, which directly stifles commercial activity and innovation.

Empowering Women Through Creative Skills

Programme Manager Oluwafemi Oluwasuyi revealed that the academy and the Mastercard Foundation have trained more than 67,000 young Nigerians across Lagos, Ogun, and Kano states over the past four years.

In Ogun State alone, over 25,000 beneficiaries received training in creative skills like sound design, lighting design, scriptwriting, animation, and arts business. The recent three-day workshop specifically engaged about 400 young women.

Government Support for Business Growth

Adebola Sofela, the Ogun State Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, praised the initiative for bridging the gap between business ideas and viable enterprises. He advised participants to embrace technology and maintain proper records.

Commissioner for Culture and Tourism Oluwasesan Fagbayi also commended the academy. He emphasized that culture, tourism, and entrepreneurship serve as interconnected drivers of local economic development.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Terra Academy for the Arts?

The Terra Academy for the Arts is an organization that trains young Nigerians in creative skills and entrepreneurship in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.

What did TAFTA demand from the government?

TAFTA called on the Federal and state governments to improve security and introduce tax rebates and incentives for young entrepreneurs.

How many people has TAFTA trained in Nigeria?

TAFTA has trained more than 67,000 young Nigerians across Lagos, Ogun, and Kano states over the past four years, according to programme records.

What skills are taught in the TAFTA programme?

The academy trains participants in creative fields such as sound design, lighting design, scriptwriting, animation, and arts business.