By Patience Aliyu
The Government of Plateau has signed a partnership with Chocolate City Music for the establishment of a creative hub and radio house in the state.
The ceremony, which took place on Monday in Jos, had members of the state’s Executive Council and Chocolate City’s representatives present.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the creative hub will have a state-of-the-art production facility, professional skill training programmes, and a radio station for youths, women, and persons with disabilities.
Mr Cornelius Doeyok, Plateau Commissioner for Tourism, Culture and Hospitality, who signed on behalf of the government, noted that the state’s enabling environment had helped to produce present and past globally recognised talents.
Doeyok added that the partnership was expected to transform the state into a creative powerhouse.
“We want to welcome the Chocolate City Music team to Jos, we are delighted to have you, there’s need for me to emphasise that this administration is committed to leveraging on every resource and partnership that will enable the development of the creative ecosystem in the state.
“The state has the enabling environment which has produced so many creative thinkers doing wonders, not just in Nigeria, but globally as well.
“Gov. Caleb Mannasseh Mutfwang is committed to ensuring the partnership with Chocolate City builds a new platform for the young people of Plateau State.
“This partnership is expected to transform Jos into a creative powerhouse, strategically focusing on job creation, skills development, and economic diversification through Nigeria’s rapidly expanding creative industry,” he said.
The commissioner, while emphasising the economic significance of the venture, noted that the partnership would position the state as Nigeria’s creative capital, diversify the economy, and create sustainable employment for youths of Plateau.
In his remarks, Mr Audu Maikori, Chairman of Chocolate City Music, stressed that the collaboration was significant for the company because Plateau was its starting point.
“This goes beyond another partnership for us, we are creating opportunities that will transform lives and livelihoods where our journey began; without Jos, there will be no Chocolate City.
“This creative revolution will empower thousands of young Nigerians with marketable skills and platforms to showcase their talents globally.
“The timing of this partnership is particularly meaningful as Chocolate City officially turns 20 this year.
“The company started as campus raves at the University of Jos over two decades ago where co-founders Paul Okeugo and myself laid the foundation for what would become one of Africa’s leading entertainment brands.
“The company has returned to invest in the community that nurtured its beginning,” Maikori said.
Similarly, Mr Abuchi Ugwu, the CEO of Chocolate City Music, outlined the project’s vision, saying the goal was to channel the creativity and energy in Jos into productive economic activities.
According to Ugwu, Plateau’s ecosystem will provide the tools and connections needed for young people to compete globally and generate sustainable income for creative entrepreneurs.
NAN also reports that the government officials who graced the event included Mr Manji Wilson, Chief Technical Adviser on Development Partnership, Mr Musa Ashoms, Commisioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mrs. Dongkum Shwarta, Commisioner for Finance, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Nyisom Fiyigon Dore
