EU pledges more funding for Nigerian artists, cultural events

The European Union (EU) has announced plans to provide additional funding to Nigeria's creative sector, with a focus on empowering artists and supporting cultural events nationwide. The announcement was made by the EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, during the inaugural edition of the Lagos Contemporary Circus Festival at the National Theatre in Surulere, Lagos.

The two-day festival featured performances by artists from various African nations, including Senegal, Côte d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, and Switzerland, showcasing dance, acrobatics, juggling, and other contemporary circus forms.

Mignot emphasized the EU's commitment to bolstering culture, arts, and the creative economy, particularly amidst global challenges. He stressed the importance of increased cultural action and funding for the arts and creative industries, which prompted the EU to support several creative summits and upcoming projects through the Europe-Africa Partnerships for Culture.

The ambassador also highlighted the EU's intention to collaborate with cultural organizations and promote co-creation with European artists, alongside funding African artists and events across Nigeria.

The festival's General Manager and CEO, Tola Akerele, stated that the event aimed to raise awareness of contemporary circus and highlight Nigeria's potential in the art form. She noted that contemporary circus blends various art forms, such as dance, movement, acrobatics, and sport, and that Nigerians possess the talent and cultural resources to create their own contemporary circus narratives.

Akerele expressed satisfaction with the festival's turnout and called for greater support for cultural activities, stating that Nigeria deserves more such events.