Ambode appoints Joke Silva, Kunle Afolayan into board of arts and culture

The Lagos state government has appointed actors, Kunle Afolayan and Joke Silva, into the state board for council of arts and culture.

Governor Akinwunmi Ambode on Wednesday inaugurated members of the board in Alausa, Ikeja.

He said that the state needed to do more if it must realise its goal to become a global hub for music, theatre and film.

The governor said the tourism sector was being re-positioned to create more employment and ensure increased contribution of the non-oil sector to the state’s gross domestic product (GDP).

“In the last 23 months, we have covered a lot of ground in terms of design and structure of the arts and entertainment sector but so much still needed to be done,” he said.

Ambode said the board would among other things, be expected to ensure the sustainable management of arts and culture facilities and infrastructures in the state and create a sustainable framework for the sector.

He urged the board to generate local and international events to showcase and promote the state’s diverse talents in the field of creative arts, music, entertainment and sports.

Ambode also tasked them to promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage while being sensitive to the diverse cultures of residents of the state.

“The Council for Arts and Culture which we have just inaugurated has a huge responsibility to translate our vision in this regard to reality,” he said.

He urged them to explore private sector support to nurture new talents and generate events for a sustainable development of the creative arts sector.

Ambode said that in view of the enormous responsibilities of the board, his administration had ensured that only seasoned professionals, notable and respected personalities were chosen to serve on the council.

Other members of the board include Polly Alakija, Kolade Oshinowo, Nike Okundaye, Mobee of Badagry, Patrick Mobee, Adesina Adeyemi, and Saidat Otulana.