DRIVING DEVELOPMENT THROUGH CREATIVITY: UNLEASHING THE POWER OF MUSIC, THEATRE AND VISUAL ARTS IN NIGERIA
Keywords:
Development, Creativity, Music Power, Theatre, Visual Arts, NigeriaAbstract
This study examined the driving development through creativity: unleashing the power of music, theatre and visual arts in Nigeria. The creativity economy theory was anchored in this study. The study adopted an interpretivist research philosophy and a descriptive survey design. The population of the study comprised 1.2 million individuals employed within Nigeria’s creative industry, according to the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (2023). A purposive sample of 15 participants was selected to ensure engagement with knowledgeable and experienced stakeholders. Purposive sampling served as the primary technique, and the sampling process involved identifying potential respondents through professional networks, arts associations and creative hubs, followed by direct contact to confirm their relevance and willingness to participate. Data were collected using semi-structured, in-depth interviews that allowed participants to express their experiences, challenges and perspectives freely, while also giving the researcher room to probe emerging ideas. The interviews generated detailed narratives that reflected the complex realities of Nigeria’s creative landscape. The study revealed that music, theatre and visual arts significantly contribute to Nigeria’s socio-economic development by creating jobs, generating income, promoting cultural tourism, and enhancing international cultural influence. The study concluded that music, theatre and visual arts are vital drivers of socio-economic development in Nigeria, with their full potential needing sustained support to maximise cultural and economic benefits. The study recommended that the Federal Ministry of Culture and Tourism should increase funding and support programs that promote music, theatre, and visual arts to enhance their socio-economic impact in Nigeria.
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