Minister Unveils $617M iDICE Fund for Cultural, Economic Expansion

The Minister for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hanatu Musawa, declared at the launch of the $617 million iDICE fund in Lagos that the investment in the Digital Economy and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) fund is set to ignite both cultural and economic expansion.

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Musawa made this announcement at the launch of iDICE and the inaugural Omniverse Summit in Lagos on Tuesday. Emphasizing the fund’s significance, she highlighted its potential to drive economic growth and development in Nigeria’s expanding digital and creative economy.
The minister said that the fund would also engender inclusivity.
“Today marks a momentous occasion as I proudly announce the groundbreaking of $617 million Investment in Digital Economy and Creative Enterprises Fund, also known as the iDICE fund.
“This fund represents a beacon of hope and opportunity for our creative community, offering unprecedented access to startup capital and resources essential for nurturing talent and fostering innovation.
“The iDICE fund epitomises the administration of President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to empowering our creatives and entrepreneurs, fueling economic growth, and driving
socio-economic transformation across Nigeria.
“It is meant for cultural and economic expansion as well as inclusivity, to cut down all barrier.
“In line with the ministry’s comprehensive 8-point plan agenda, it lays the foundation for sustainable financing, skills development and market access within the digital and creative ecosystem,” she said.
Musawa said that provision for the intervention fund for the art was currently being looked into as the iDICE fund was not a substitute to this.
Commenting on the Omniverse summit, Musawa said it presents a unique platform to network with industry leaders and gain insights from experts.
She said the platform also gives room for individuals to contribute to the development of policies and initiatives that would drive African innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship forward.
She explained that collaborations and engagement among industry players and policymakers were paramount in unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s creative economy.
“I urge everyone to actively engage, foster collaboration and forge bonds that will not only drive our economy but also reshape the creative landscape of our nation.
“The ministry is organising numerous working sessions, serving as invaluable
platforms for stakeholders to converge, exchange ideas, and co-create strategies to propel the industry forward.
“It is time we harness the full potential of our cultural influence.
“The iDICE fund coupled with amazing platforms such as the Omniverse summit that has convened our integrated ecosystem here today, will serve as a catalyst, providing support and access to burgeoning global markets,” she said.
Speaking further on how the funds could be accessed by Nigerians, Mr Ife Adebayo, National Programme Coordinator, IDICE fund, said it would be diabursed by Adventure Capital Ltd.
Adebayo noted that the funding banks were: African Development Bank, the Islamic Development Bank, Agence Française de Développement and the Bank of Industry (BOI).
Earlier, Obi Asika, Director-General, National Council for Arts and Culture and convener of the summit, explained that the forum was created for the purpose of collaboration and networking which were highly needed in advancing any industry.
Also, Mr Charles Emembolu, Co-Convener, Omniverse summit, who explained the essence of the gathering, urged everyone to collaborate, invest and participate in a digital revolution that transcends borders.
Emembolu, who is the Chairman, Advisory Board of the Innovation Support Network (ISN), said Nigeria’s digital landscape had become ripe with opportunities.
“As we look back at the last 25 years, we see a nation that has overcome challenges, embraced innovations and produced world-class unicorns.
“Now, the stage is set for even greater achievements. At this inaugural event, the Omniverse offers the perfect opportunity to experience our digital innovation ecosystem, build partnerships and break silos.
“This event has been brought to you by 18 ecosystem players who have volunteered time including weekends to bring us all together.
“My gratitude goes to them all, to our sponsors partners and support system, locally and globally,” he said.
Meanwhile, Weert Börner, German Consul General in Lagos, assured Africans of German Government’s commitment toward fostering mutually beneficial partnerships with Africa through programmes of its Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

NAN/O.O