Entertainments
Benue’s Creative Sector Gains Fresh Boost as Gov Alia Strengthens Support for Arts, Fashion and Entertainment
From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi
Across Nigeria, state governments are increasingly recognising the economic and social value of the creative sector.
In recent years, the Governor has introduced a series of gestures, appointments and interventions that point to a renewed emphasis on entertainment, fashion, arts and grassroots talent development. Collectively, these efforts are beginning to shape the foundation of a more coordinated creative ecosystem.
One of the most notable moments of this shift came during the fifth edition of Men Fashion Week Benue (MFWB), held in Makurdi in November 2025. The Governor’s appearance on the runway surprised attendees and drew national attention. Beyond the spectacle, however, was a broader message: the state is prepared to recognise and uplift the creativity emerging from its youth.
Founded by designer and creative director Jamal Jamilu, the event has grown into a major cultural platform. During the show, the Governor used the opportunity to announce a support package for the initiative.
This engagement forms part of a broader strategy. Earlier in the year, Governor Alia convened leading figures from Benue’s creative industry — spanning music, fashion, cultural festivals and film — to discuss how to better coordinate the state’s cultural calendar, boost local talent and expand opportunities for youth-led enterprises.
The deliberations resulted in a harmonised programme titled “Christmas Celebrations in Benue,” which aims to bring existing creative events together under a unified structure.
The Governor has also continued to recognise individual achievements. In August, he hosted a special reception for football star Francesca Ordega following her Africa Women Cup of Nations victory with the Super Falcons. The event underscored the value of celebrating Benue-born achievers and supporting their continued success. Similar encouragement has been extended to musicians, performance artists and local entrepreneurs through direct interactions and appearances at creative venues in the state capital.
Strategic appointments have further reinforced the administration’s interest in developing the cultural sector.
The appointment of globally acclaimed musician Innocent “2Baba” Idibia as Adviser on Entertainment and Community Outreach remains a key milestone. Other appointees with backgrounds in fashion, event planning and cultural management are now contributing to a growing network of creative support within government.
Beyond formal appointments, the Governor has taken deliberate steps to connect with creative and hospitality businesses across Makurdi. Frequently unannounced, these visits include stops at restaurants, lounges and emerging entertainment spaces where he interacts with young entrepreneurs and small business owners. For many, these encounters offer motivation in a sector where visibility and acknowledgment carry significant weight.
While the full impact of these initiatives will become clearer over time, the response from creative practitioners has been largely positive. Many view the recent engagements as the beginning of a stronger partnership between government and the sector—one that appreciates the potential for job creation, tourism, innovation and youth empowerment.
Benue’s creative community spans fashion, music, visual arts, dance, film and cultural festivals. With continued collaboration, the state has an opportunity to deepen its footprint in Nigeria’s creative economy. For practitioners like Mshelia Jamal Jamilu, whose efforts continue to advance platforms such as Men Fashion Week Benue, the emerging support brings both momentum and visibility. For others working behind the scenes, it signals growing recognition of their contributions and promise.
As the sector continues to evolve, it is increasingly evident that Benue’s creative energy stands among its greatest strengths. The developing partnership between creators, communities and the state offers a promising pathway toward unlocking that potential for wider social and economic impact.