Popular Nigerian comedian KO-Baba has called on governments at all levels to intensify efforts to curb insecurity, stressing that improved safety will significantly boost the entertainment industry.
The comedian made the appeal during a press briefing for his forthcoming annual event, Mayor of PITAKWA, in Port Harcourt.
According to him, insecurity discourages residents from attending events, thereby affecting entertainers, event organizers, and other stakeholders within the creative sector.
“In an environment ravaged by insecurity, it becomes difficult for people to attend events. When people are not confident about their safety, the entertainment industry suffers,” he said.
Drawing comparisons with Lagos State, KO-Baba noted that the government there has demonstrated support for entertainment events by partnering with organizers and offering sponsorship.
“In states like Lagos, the government comes on board to support events. They partner with organizers and sponsors. We saw that happen in October last year when several events received government backing,” he stated.
He explained that financial support from the government would ease the burden on event conveners and improve profitability, which in turn would drive growth in the industry.
“When the government contributes ₦20 million or ₦50 million to an event, it reduces the burden on the convener and increases profitability. More profit means more progress for us,” he added.
The comedian also advocated for a structured retainer ship system for entertainers and media organizations. He suggested that governments could fund selected media houses and entertainment companies to consistently promote and cover events within their cities.
“The government can select about 10 companies and give them structured funding. Their responsibility will be to cover and promote events happening in the city. When media houses, radio stations, and television channels receive dedicated funding, they will feel obligated to create and promote entertainment shows,” he explained.
He argued that although such an initiative would require significant investment, the long-term economic benefits would outweigh the costs.
“For instance, if ₦100 million is allocated to each of 10 stations, that may total about ₦1 billion. But I can assure you that the ecosystem created within that space could generate over ₦10 billion in economic value. The visibility and growth it will bring will be enormous,” KO-Baba said.
He maintained that a deliberate and strategic approach to strengthening the creative ecosystem would not only grow the entertainment industry but also contribute to crime reduction.
“If we are deliberate about boosting and creating this ecosystem, we will see positive changes. It will create opportunities, engage young people, and ultimately help reduce crime,” he concluded.
