WITTY GLOBAL BLOGS | THURSDAY FLAGSHIP EDITION Africa's $2 Billion Creative Economy Financing Push: What Nigerian Filmmakers, Musicians and Digital Creators Need to Know By Itoro Uwah | Thursday, November 12, 2026 CREATIVE ECONOMY | BUSINESS | TECHNOLOGY | INVESTMENT LAGOS, NIGERIA — Africa's creative economy is attracting renewed attention from development financiers and policymakers, following the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) WKND 2026 gathering in Lagos from November 5 to 8. Organised by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and hosted by Nigeria, the gathering brought together creative entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers and cultural-industry professionals to explore financing, intellectual property, technology and market access. Afreximbank's CANEX financing ambition has expanded to $2 billion, reflecting a growing institutional effort to support African cultural and creative enterprises. However, the figure must be understood correctly...
Children as the First Test: Why Raising Future Leaders Starts Today
Every society is built on the shoulders of its children. The leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow are sitting in classrooms, homes, and playgrounds today. That is why children are not just the next generation — they are the first test of how well we are preparing for the future.
As I often remind parents, teachers, and mentors:
> “Raising a child without the future in mind is more dangerous than the deadliest weapon ever designed.” – Itoro Uwah
This message explores why children are the first test and how raising them intentionally can secure Africa’s future.
1. Children Mirror Our Values
The values we model today are the ones they will multiply tomorrow. If we sow honesty, hard work, and responsibility, they will build societies of excellence. If we neglect values, they will inherit confusion.
Every child is a reflection of the family and community they come from.
2. Parenting Is Leadership
Parenting is not just about providing food or school fees — it is about shaping destinies. A child learns what leadership means first from home. Discipline, love, and vision are leadership tools.
Good parents raise good children. Good children build good nations.
3. Mentorship Builds Confidence
Beyond parents, children need role models. Mentorship helps them dream beyond their environment and believe they can succeed. For Africa, mentorship is a powerful tool to break cycles of poverty and low expectations.
Every empowered child is proof that mentorship works.
4. Education Is More Than Academics
Passing exams is not the only measure of success. True education must combine knowledge, character, and creativity. The child who learns values alongside academics will build lasting influence.
5. The Future Is Already Here
We often say “children are the leaders of tomorrow”, but in reality, they are leaders of today in training. The earlier we prepare them, the stronger tomorrow will be.
6. The African Responsibility
Africa is a young continent — over 60% of the population is under 25. This is a blessing, but also a test. If we fail to raise this generation well, the future of Africa will remain delayed.
This is why initiatives like the BEFOCUS Children & Youth Foundation exist — to build sense, build future, and prepare leaders early.
Children are the first test of our vision, leadership, and values. If we pass the test by raising them well, we guarantee a future of excellence. If we fail, no amount of money or power will repair the damage.
Remember:
> “Children are the first test — and the future depends on how we pass it.” – Itoro Uwah
So, the question is: What seeds are you planting in the next generation today?
Written by: Itoro Sunday Uwah
Advocacy: Founder of Witty Global Industries Ltd. and BEFOCUS Children & Youth Foundation — Building Sense. Building Future.
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