ABIA – The Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, has observed with dismay the negative criticisms and unfounded allegations circulating on social media regarding the upcoming Abia Comedy Fest, scheduled to hold on December 12 at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia.
To set the records straight, the Ministry wishes to make the following clarifications:
- The Abia Comedy Fest is a joint project being handled by Abia State government in conjunction with Enyioha Global Promotions, a reputable private event promoter.
- The Ministry’s involvement is purely supportive. As part of its mandate to encourage and promote Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative economy ecosystem in the state, the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy is playing a supportive and supervisory role by ensuring that the event meets acceptable standards, aligns with the government’s creative economy agenda, and showcases Abia’s rich artistic potential to a wider audience.
- Abia entertainers are adequately represented. Contrary to speculations that no Abia-born entertainer was selected for the event, several homegrown talents including MC Organic, Asanwa Merit, Funny Urch, Don Wise and even P-Square, who has marital roots in Abia are billed to perform.
The organizers have deliberately ensured a fair representation of Abia talents alongside other notable acts, in line with the goal of promoting local content.
- It is important to state that the Abia Entertainers Frontiers Association and Abia Entertainers Forum, which have been vocal about the event, is yet to officially identify with or register with the Ministry. Meanwhile, other entertainment bodies and creative industry groups including Hotel Owners Association, Hotel Proprietors Association, Travelers Agency of Nigeria, Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) Abia State Chapter, among others, have duly identified with and registered under the Ministry as required.
- Identification and registration are compulsory for effective planning. As the parent regulatory body for arts, culture and the creative sector in Abia State, the Ministry relies on proper identification and registration of associations, guilds and unions to harmonize activities, incorporate stakeholders into government programmes and plan effectively for the growth of the industry.
This process is neither punitive nor restrictive but is purely administrative and necessary for sustainable development.
- The Ministry therefore wishes to reiterate the unwavering commitment of Governor Alex Otti towards supporting creative ideas, entertainment innovations and artistic ventures that will boost tourism, expand the creative economy and position Abia as a preferred cultural and entertainment destination across Africa.
The public is hereby advised to disregard the misleading narratives and continue to support initiatives that enhance the state’s cultural image and economic advancement.
Hon. Matthew Ekwuribe
Hon. Commissioner,
Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy,
Abia State.
