By Onyiba Shepherdman Iyioku
Recently, the renowned hiplife artist Phyno made his first stop at the Lion Building, where he met with the Executive Governor and Chief Security Officer of Enugu State, His Excellency Barr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, during his Easter show in Enugu.
If you’ve been following this trend, you’d agree that Phyno isn’t the only artist the governor has hosted. He has extended similar gestures to filmmakers and footballers who began their careers in Enugu State.
One might ask: is hosting entertainers and sports professionals what makes him a supporter of the entertainment industry? The answer lies in the fact that while hosting is part of it – boosting the confidence of these entertainers and assuring them they’re valued and welcome in Enugu – the governor has done much more to encourage the growth of the entertainment industry in the state.
Security is key for any governor aiming to make their state an entertainment hub. Simply put, no prominent artist would risk their life or that of their crew by visiting insecure states.
I recall a recent statement by the young Minister who accompanied President Tinubu to Jos, referencing Enugu’s effective policing with CCTV cameras.
Beyond the cameras, Enugu residents are aware of Mbah’s acquisition of sophisticated security gadgets like high-quality drones, which have made it tough for criminals to operate in the state.
Aside from security measures, Mbah has invested in infrastructure. Our urban roads are constructed with dark, shining asphalt, and the environment is clean with an aesthetic ambiance.
An Enugu native returning to behold the beauty and glamour of our urban areas would be proud and eager to return.
This piece highlights the importance of fostering a thriving entertainment industry due to its economic multiplier effect. Phyno’s trip to Enugu created opportunities for young artists who met their idol for the first time.
Some used pictures with him to generate social media traffic, earning dollars from monetized pages. A few may collaborate with him in the future – Phyno mentioned giving back to the streets that made him, likely referring to Enugu, the Coal City State.
When Phyno features upcoming artists, their songs may go viral, leading to economic breakthroughs.
This creates jobs: managers, makeup artists, cameramen, editors, and more become economically independent. When these artists perform in Enugu, they pay venue fees, benefiting the state.
The entertainment industry creates jobs with huge returns on investment, involving government, artists, stage owners, instrumentalists, dancers, and more.
Kudos to His Excellency Barr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for reviving nightlife and economic growth in Enugu. To God be the glory.
