‘Nigeria’s creative industry still challenged by lack of funding’

The Creative Director, Maliko, Ebuka Omaliko, has called on the Federal Government to urgently prioritise investment towards Nigeria’s productive industry.

He said the sector is vital to achieving an all-inclusive economy as its multiplier effect on the economy cannot be overemphasised.

Omaliko stated this at a facility tour organised by TEDx Lagos to spotlight Nigeria’s best scientists, entrepreneurs, professionals, innovators and reformers to share ideas that would spark deep discussions and birth new ideas that would change the society.

According to him, considering the high demand for foreign exchange to import raw materials for production, he has been sourcing his raw materials locally by using recycled materials to produce top-notch quality shoes and bags.

In his words: “There is much we can achieve in this sector especially converting waste to wealth. With the help of my host communities, I have been able to source for raw materials from products regarded as waste. There is so much we can do, but the government has a lot to do to make adequate financing available for entrepreneurs in the sector.”

He lamented over the few Nigerian brands making waves at the global market, saying that in no distant time, his brand would be a force to reckon with at the global scene

Also speaking, the convener, TEDxLagos, Mercy Akamo, said shoes are a popular way to express style and fashion sense, saying that in recent years, Nigerian made shoes are so much sought after.

“Maliko is one of the Made-in-Nigeria footwear brands taking the country and African continent by storm. We will get to see how these outstanding African entrepreneurs are using their abilities, ingenuity, and hard work to make these brands successful throughout the world, and get to know them better,” she said.

She added: “After this, we’ll learn from Aga Concept, a company that transforms wood into eco-friendly fashion wood items and accessories.”