FirstBank Contributes to Creative Arts Industry Growth through Sponsorship of LITF

brandessence November 15, 2024 Brand News

FirstBank has once again underscored its unwavering commitment to the advancement of the creative arts in Nigeria by proudly announcing its role as the headline sponsor of the Lagos International Theatre Festival (LITF) 2023. Set to take place from November 14 to 17, this vibrant festival underscores the bank’s ethos of being “Woven Into the Fabric of Society,” a principle that reflects its intrinsic ties to the communities in which it operates.

The Lagos International Theatre Festival is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of creativity, culture, and collaboration. By supporting this festival, FirstBank not only champions the growth of the creative economy but also fosters cultural exchange both within and beyond Nigeria. This alignment with the arts is part of the bank’s wider First@Arts initiative, which is dedicated to promoting cultural projects and empowering creative entrepreneurs.

During a recent press conference in Lagos, Oluseyi Oyefeso, Executive Director of Retail Banking at FirstBank, emphasized the bank’s strategic alignment with the creative industry. “FirstBank is proud to be the lead sponsor of this groundbreaking event organized by Terra Kulture in partnership with the Lagos State government. We have always had a soft spot for the creative arts, which is as timeless as human existence. Our First@Arts initiative consolidates support for the entire value chain of the creative industry by providing vital financing, promotion, and sponsorship opportunities essential for its success.”

Oyefeso highlighted how the sponsorship reflects FirstBank’s understanding of the transformative power of the arts. “Theatre, in particular, has a unique ability to inspire and unify people, fostering national cohesion. It serves as a platform for self-expression and cultural commentary, essential elements in any thriving society.”

The LITF is set to showcase a diverse array of performances and workshops, bringing together local and international artists and audiences to celebrate the richness of theatrical arts. Through its partnership with the festival, FirstBank is not only facilitating artistic expression but is also opening doors for emerging talents in the creative sector.

As the festival approaches, anticipation builds among artists and art lovers alike. FirstBank’s sponsorship aims to enhance the opportunities available to these individuals, enabling them to explore the vast wealth of creativity that exists within Nigeria’s borders.

With initiatives like First@Arts and events such as the LITF, FirstBank is making a significant impact in nurturing the creative landscape of Nigeria. By investing in the arts, the bank not only helps spark inspiration and innovation but also plays a crucial role in the socio-economic growth of the nation.

In conclusion, FirstBank’s contribution to the Lagos International Theatre Festival is a testament to its belief in the arts as a catalyst for change. As the festival unfolds, it will undoubtedly reaffirm the bank’s commitment to support the creative industry and empower the next generation of artists, writers, and performers who are set to shape the future of Nigerian culture.

“For more than 130 years, First Bank has been committed to empowering Nigerians by promoting national development through our involvement in various initiatives. We are excited to be part of this journey, empowering creatives, enriching the cultural landscape of Lagos, fostering community engagement, and entrenching social impact,” he said.
He explained further that the partnership will help create jobs, boost the creative economy, and accelerate the economic growth of the country.
“The creative industry, encompassing film, music, literature, and live performances, plays a significant role in Nigeria’s economy. By supporting events like the Lagos International Theatre Festival, the bank not only enriches our cultural heritage but also bolsters job creation and the broader arts ecosystem, which encompasses stage designers, sound engineers, and marketers,” he emphasized.
The Founder of the Lagos International Theatre Festival, Bolanle Austen-Peters said the festival is part of its efforts to use arts to tell the unique stories of Nigeria and Nigerians to the world by celebrating the power of arts.
“Over the years, we have developed so many skill sets and many production houses that have risen out of the work that we do out of Terra Kulture. We thought it might be a good idea to have all of them come together as a community to create a wider ecosystem for the arts to thrive.
“I’m sure most of us remember FESTAC ’77 and the impact it had, not just the social impact but the economic impact as well. What we are doing now is in that fashion. We are bringing troupes from across the globe. Today, we have with us Mr. Stanley Richardson from America. He will be performing. We have from South Africa and Zambia, we have Mr Isaac Kalumba.
“This is one of those unique occasions that we as a people will bring Africans, Americans, from all over the world to converge in Lagos to celebrate the power of arts. Nothing unifies us more than the arts. It bridges gaps; it creates a common language, fun, and excitement. I’m glad that FirstBank saw it and keyed into it.”
Commenting on the economic impact of the festival, Austen-Peters stated “The impact is immense; the economic impact of this is significant. There will be stalls for people selling artifacts and hotels being booked for those coming in; there are so many ancillary benefits for our economy from doing things like this. This is the beginning of a long journey and it will become bigger and bigger as we go along.”
She, therefore, applauded FirstBank for supporting the festival, adding that it shows its commitment to contributing to the growth of the creative industry beyond making a profit.
Similarly, veteran Nollywood Actor Jide Kosoko commended FirstBank for supporting the creative industry over the years and urged other brands to emulate such a gesture as it will make the industry stronger and better.
LITF organized by Terra Kulture in partnership with the Lagos State government and sponsored by FirstBank, will be held in four venues in Lagos.
Vanessa Jev, Festival Director, LITF disclosed that the venues are the National Theatre (Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts), Terra Kulture, Muson Centre, and John Randle Centre.
The festival will also feature talented artists from the United States, South Africa, Zambia, and Nigeria.
Through FirstBank’s First@arts initiative, the bank has been supporting the entire value chain of the creative arts, providing much-needed financing and advisory services, showcasing and facilitating the successes of the industry, and enabling customers to explore the wealth of opportunities the creative industry has to offer.

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