Senator Ned Nwoko (APC–Delta North) has pledged the sum of N200 million to fund a nationwide talent hunt initiative aimed at discovering, mentoring, and promoting young Nigerian artists.
The senator made the announcement on Saturday, stating that the project is designed to uplift the country’s creative sector and provide a platform for emerging talents to thrive.
According to Senator Nwoko, the talent hunt will focus on identifying gifted individuals in various creative fields, including music, film, dance, visual arts, and other forms of artistic expression. The lawmaker emphasized that Nigeria’s youthful population is a powerful resource, and channeling their creativity into productive ventures is critical for national development.
The initiative, he said, will not only spotlight raw talent but will also offer structured support, including mentorship, training workshops, production funding, and industry exposure. Selected participants will receive professional guidance from established figures in the Nigerian entertainment and creative industries.
Senator Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District in the National Assembly, described the talent hunt as a “transformative intervention” that will address unemployment and offer economic opportunities for young people. He said the N200 million fund will be disbursed through a well-coordinated program that prioritizes transparency, regional representation, and sustainability.
The senator noted that the program would be implemented in phases, with auditions and selection processes taking place across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. This, he explained, is to ensure inclusivity and give every aspiring artist a fair opportunity to showcase their abilities, regardless of location or background.
He added that the project aligns with broader government efforts to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil by investing in the creative and knowledge-based sectors. According to Nwoko, Nigeria’s entertainment industry, particularly music and film, has already gained international acclaim, and further investments could unlock even greater potential.
The senator said that as someone who has long supported youth empowerment and education, he is committed to creating avenues for young Nigerians to succeed. He pointed out that many talented individuals lack the resources and exposure necessary to break into the industry, and this initiative seeks to bridge that gap.
In addition to mentorship and cash support, the project will include talent showcases, live performances, studio sessions, and media campaigns aimed at promoting the finalists to a wider audience. There are also plans to partner with entertainment platforms, record labels, and streaming services to help launch the careers of the winners.
Nwoko appealed to corporate sponsors, media houses, and industry stakeholders to support the program and contribute to the development of Nigeria’s creative economy. He emphasized that public-private collaboration is key to sustaining the initiative beyond its inaugural edition.
The lawmaker also reiterated his belief in the power of the arts to unite and inspire the country. He said creative expression is a tool for national cohesion, cultural preservation, and economic resilience, particularly at a time when Nigeria is grappling with multiple socio-economic challenges.
Although no specific dates were given, Senator Nwoko stated that the full program details, including registration guidelines, audition venues, and selection criteria, will be released in the coming weeks. He assured the public that the process will be inclusive, fair, and focused on rewarding merit.
The announcement has already generated interest among aspiring artists and youth advocates, with many praising the senator’s personal commitment to youth empowerment and creative development. Industry experts also welcomed the pledge, describing it as a rare but commendable move by an elected official to directly support the arts.
As Nigeria continues to position itself as a leading cultural hub in Africa, the talent hunt spearheaded by Senator Ned Nwoko is expected to offer new opportunities for undiscovered artists and strengthen the country’s reputation as a vibrant center for creativity and innovation.
