On Thursday, the 6th of March, 2025, MADhouse by Tikera Africa hosted Dr. Ndiamé Diop, the World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, for an insightful lightning talk on “Creativity and Youth Development as a Driver for Economic Growth & Development”.
The discussion focused on the World Bank’s role in fostering economic development in Nigeria through investing in youth development initiatives, the impact of Tikera and MADhouse in creating learning and investment opportunities for emerging creatives, and the need for strategic investment in the creative and cultural sector. The event is the first of subsequent collaborations between Tikera Africa and the World Bank in promoting meaningful youth development on the African continent.
Dr. Diop engaged with some of Nigeria’s top emerging creatives, and stakeholders within the sector, exploring how creativity and cultural innovation contribute to poverty alleviation, job creation, and sustainable economic development. The event also facilitated a dialogue between the World Bank and key actors in Nigeria’s creative economy, reinforcing the importance of partnerships in unlocking the industry’s full potential.
Dr. Ndiamé Diop, World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, highlighted the significance of investing in creative industries: “It is an incredible opportunity to reaffirm the global commitment to supporting development through initiatives like this, which directly impact Africa’s youth. For the creative sector to thrive, it requires the right policies, an enabling environment, and the dedication of stakeholders who recognize its potential. Institutions like the World Bank, alongside key development partners, play a crucial role in mobilizing resources to support and scale the creative economy. However, true impact happens at the grassroots level—where individuals and organizations like MADhouse by Tikera interact directly with creatives, shaping mindsets, fostering innovation, and driving meaningful economic change through art.”
Bayo Omoboriowo, Founder of Tikera Africa, emphasized: “Everything we are doing is about re-engineering the creative and cultural industries of Nigeria and Africa to drive tangible results. We believe that this space can support and accelerate the development that we urgently need. However, until we begin to take deliberate action—by creating intentional communities and fostering ecosystems that allow creativity to thrive—we risk stalling progress. At MADhouse by Tikera, we are nurturing a new generation of creatives who understand that their work goes beyond artistic expression; it is a tool for economic transformation. Through our initiatives, we have witnessed firsthand the impact of education and mentorship in shifting mindsets and equipping creatives to contribute meaningfully to Africa’s development. We extend our gratitude to our stakeholders and partners for their unwavering support in this journey as we continually pursue meaningful collaborations with other actors within the sector.”
The event also featured a showcase of select works from MADhouse by Tikera creatives, giving attendees a first hand experience of the innovation and artistic excellence emerging from Nigeria’s creative economy.
