Impressed with the success of Burna Boy’s ‘Lagos Loves Damini’ January 1 show, the UK government has launched talks with its organizers to explore a partnership that would shore up the entertainment sector in Nigeria.

Steps towards the partnership began at a meeting held at the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos on Friday.

At the meeting were Creative Economy Catalyst Ltd, the main promoter of the fair, Mr. Kaycee Kennedy; Country Director, UK Department for International Trade, Chim Chalemera.

In a commentary, Kennedy listed the positives, including the fact that the show was the first African show to be listed on the official Burna Boy + ticketing website.

He also noted that the show was the largest outdoor music concert with more than 30,000 spectators.

It also featured the largest car park at an event, more than 11,000 cars, and was also the pioneer in single-source online ticketing via wallet, it added.

Other major positives included the fact that no casualties, robberies, sexual assaults, or sexual harassment were reported.

However, Kennedy noted that despite the positives, there were some challenges and learning points.

He said that the desire to address the main challenges and negatives encountered at the Lagos fair required the visit of the British Deputy High Commission to meet with the UK Department for International Trade and discuss possible collaboration for future events.

The Nigerian News Agency reports that the issue of inadequate power supply and power surge that led to a blackout that destroyed a good deal of equipment was discussed at length.

The need for logistical support in areas such as infrastructure including equipment rental and standardization of said equipment in an attempt to meet minimum international standards was also discussed.

The meeting also discussed sourcing and supplier management.

Possible support for waste management after concerts and other large events was also discussed.

A proper waste recycling structure was agreed to be a very critical facility after the concert to preserve the environment and meet acclaimed international environmental and biodisposal standards.

Chalemera, in his contribution, said he was happy to provide any support needed, including networking and introducing relevant UK companies to partner with concert promoters.

According to her, the association would ensure that future concerts are held according to international standards.

NAN reports that in November 2022, the UK Department for International Trade facilitated a trade mission for 18 UK companies participating in round 10 of £20m energy catalysts for sustainable energy.

They visited Eko Energy City, home of the “Lagos Loves Damini” show, and were hosted by Creative Economy Catalyst Ltd.

Consequently, the follow-up visit on Friday marked an important step towards developing a partnership between Creative Economy Catalyst and the Department of International Trade just ahead of the next round of international shows and concerts scheduled for 2023 at Eko Energy City, Lagos. .

An excited Chalemera expressed her happiness at the potential benefits of the partnership.

“The UK is very happy to support the Creative Economy Catalyst team as part of our broader engagement with the Nigerian creative industry.

“The UK has a lot to offer in terms of expertise when it comes to hosting large-scale entertainment events such as concerts and festivals.

“We look forward to seeing how this experience can be applied to future events,” he said.

YAYA