By Ngozi Otu
World Creativity and Innovation Day is celebrated on April 21 to raise awareness about the importance of creativity and innovation in addressing global challenges and advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In a world teeming with challenges and opportunities, the day emphasizes the role of creative thinking in finding solutions to complex problems.
Creativity is the spark that ignites new ideas, while innovation is the process that brings these ideas to life, transforming them into tangible solutions.
Whether it’s pioneering breakthroughs in technology, addressing social inequalities, or revolutionizing business practices, creativity and innovation are the driving forces behind progress in every sphere of human endeavour.
One of the fundamental aspects of World Creativity and Innovation Day is its emphasis on inclusivity. As creativity knows no bounds and innovation thrives when diverse perspectives come together, it is important to create fostering environments that encourage collaboration, diversity, and the free exchange of ideas.
Importance of creativity and innovation
On World Creativity and Innovation Day, the world is expected to embrace the idea that innovation is essential for harnessing the economic potential of nations.
Through widespread entrepreneurship, countries can ignite fresh momentum towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), fostering economic growth, and generating employment opportunities.
This approach also offers opportunities for everyone, including women and youth, to contribute solutions to pressing challenges like poverty eradication and hunger alleviation.
According to the 2022 UNESCO report, culture and creativity account for 3.1% of global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 6.2% of all employment, while exports of cultural goods and services doubled in value from 2005 to reach US$389.1 billion in 2019.
Besides being one of the youngest and fastest-growing economic sectors in the world, the creative economy is one of the most vulnerable sectors that is often overlooked by public and private investment.
Nigeria, with its vast human capital and natural resources, possesses immense potential for economic advancement. However, persistent challenges such as unemployment, poverty, and infrastructure deficits underscore the need for innovative solutions to drive progress.
Creativity and innovation can serve as catalysts for addressing these challenges and unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential. By fostering an environment that encourages entrepreneurship, investing in education and skills development, and promoting research and development, Nigeria can cultivate a culture of innovation that drives economic diversification and prosperity.
Benefits of Creativity and Innovation
One area where creativity and innovation can have a profound impact is in the agriculture sector.
By leveraging technology and modern agricultural practices, such as precision farming and value chain optimization, Nigerian farmers can increase productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, and access broader markets both domestically and internationally.
Nigeria’s burgeoning technology sector presents immense opportunities for innovation-driven growth. With a growing population of tech-savvy youth, there is a vibrant ecosystem of startups and innovators poised to drive technological advancements and disrupt traditional industries. Initiatives to support entrepreneurship, provide access to financing, and foster collaboration between the public and private sectors can further fuel the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.
Creativity and innovation can play a pivotal role in addressing Nigeria’s energy challenges. With abundant renewable energy resources such as solar and wind, there is enormous potential to expand access to clean and affordable energy across the country. Innovative solutions in renewable energy technology, energy storage, and grid optimization can help Nigeria transition towards a more sustainable and resilient energy system.
Furthermore, fostering a culture of creativity and innovation in the arts, culture, and creative industry can contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth. The country’s rich cultural heritage and creative talents provide a unique competitive advantage on the global stage. By supporting and promoting creative entrepreneurship, the country can harness the economic potential of its cultural assets while preserving its cultural identity.
FRCN- Editing by Annabel Nwachukwu
