By Obianuju Umeh
The Anambra State Government is stepping up its leadership of the state’s creative economy, deepening collaboration with the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN) to create opportunities for emerging artistes, preserve cultural heritage and strengthen the entertainment sector.
The Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Mr. Udoji Amedu, said this when a PMAN delegation, led by its leader, Mr Sammy Chris, paid a courtesy visit to him at his office in Awka.
Amedu said the state government recognises musicians and other creative professionals as important partners in preserving and projecting Anambra’s cultural identity, assuring the association that the ministry would continue to pursue practical partnerships capable of nurturing talent, expanding opportunities and strengthening the entertainment industry.
He stressed that government’s engagement with creative sector stakeholders was focused on building an environment where young artistes could develop their skills, showcase their work and contribute to the state’s economic growth.
The commissioner noted that the government was particularly interested in initiatives that could transform Anambra’s cultural and artistic resources into sustainable opportunities for young people while creating wider economic value for the state.
Speaking during the visit, Chris described PMAN as the umbrella body for musicians across Nigeria and welcomed closer engagement with the state government, saying stronger collaboration could provide greater support for emerging artistes.
He appealed for government backed initiatives for young talents, including a music studio where promising artistes without the financial capacity to produce their works could access professional facilities and develop their craft.
Chris called for greater recognition of veteran musicians who have contributed to Anambra’s musical and cultural heritage, citing cultural music icon Theresa Onuorah and late music legend Chief Stephen Osita Osadebe as examples deserving continued recognition.
Onuorah expressed her readiness to work with the state government to promote Anambra’s entertainment sector through cultural music.
She pledged to use her experience and music to support cultural preservation, inspire younger artistes and project the state’s heritage to wider audiences.
The partnership drive is expected to strengthen the bridge between government and the creative sector, with the broader goal of creating livelihoods for young people, preserving Anambra’s cultural identity and ensuring the state’s creative talent contributes more visibly to its social and economic development.
Obianuju Umeh is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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