The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has said that today’s economy is more of talent based and knowledge-based, and that Nigerians now see that the economy is not just about White Collar jobs or even Blue Collar jobs.

L-R: Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Mrs Winifred Oyo-Ita and Madam Grace Isu, while inspecting products at the Expo on Friday

Alhaji Mohammed said this on Friday at the ongoing African Arts and Craft Expo in Abuja while he inspected the various exhibitions on display.

This exhibition was organised by the National Council of Arts and Culture (NCAC).

The Minister, who was with the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Winifred Oyo-Ita, and the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Information and Culture, Madam Grace Isu Gekpe, used the occasion to restate the present administration’s commitment to exploiting the Creative Industry in its drive to diversify the economy.

“We have gone to pavilions, individual galleries and also (those belonging to the) states and countries.

I think the whole idea is to let Nigerians know that this government believes in this diversification of its economy and that the Creative Industry in particular, films, arts and craft and the likes, is one area which is under-exploited and it can employ more people and create wealth.

What you have seen today is just the skills and talents of Nigerians,” he said.

Alhaji Mohammed stressed the contribution of the “Creative” industry towards Nigeria’s escape from recession. He commended Nigerians for their creativity and artistry.

“To me, the most important aspect of it is that Nigerians are now getting more involved and they are now seeing the value of creativity.

They now see that the economy is not just about White Collar jobs or even Blue Collar jobs.

Today’s economy is more of talent-based and knowledge-based,” the Minister said.

The Minister further implored creative Nigerians to work on packaging so as to be able to compete, and social media campaigns so as to get more audience.