The Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy (FMACCE), in partnership with Google and Del York Creative Academy, has launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering 2,500 young creatives across Nigeria, with plans to scale to 10,000. The initiative is part of the Creative Leap Acceleration Programme (CLAP), designed to drive skills development and foster innovation in Nigeria’s growing creative sector.
Led by the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), the program will equip participants with hands-on experience in key creative fields, including music, film, animation, content creation, live production, and audio. The partnership with Google and Del York Creative Academy ensures that aspiring creatives gain practical skills that align with industry needs, positioning them for success in both local and global markets.
FMACCE’s Honourable Minister, Hannatu Musa-Musawa, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration: “This partnership showcases our commitment to nurturing Nigeria’s creative talent. By equipping our youth with essential skills, we are not only creating jobs but positioning Nigeria as a leader in cultural exports. In line with the Renewed Hope agenda, this initiative will drive innovation and economic growth.”
The six-week program will focus on building foundational skills in visual storytelling and video content production, with participants learning to storyboard, shoot, edit, and incorporate motion graphics and AI into their projects. A select group will also receive intensive, in-person mentorship, culminating in the creation of high-quality visual content.
Olumide Falegan, Manager for EMEA Music & Culture at Google SSA, emphasized the broader impact: “By empowering 2,500 professionals—and ultimately 10,000—we’re investing in Africa’s creative future and economic prosperity.”
Linus Idahosa, CEO of the Del-York Group, highlighted the program’s role in bridging gaps between creative talent and corporate stakeholders. “This partnership is designed to foster creative entrepreneurs, enabling the corporate sector to leverage this expertise for business growth.”
Aspiring creatives can apply for the training, which opens on October 8th and closes on October 30th, offering a vital opportunity to gain mentorship and build a career in Africa’s burgeoning creative industry.
This collaboration, alongside Google’s other initiatives like the Black Voices Fund, reaffirms its commitment to fostering sustainable growth in Africa’s creative economy, helping to shape the next generation of African innovators.