The U.S. Consulate General recently hosted over 100 leaders and emerging professionals from Nigeria’s vibrant creative industry for an insightful fireside chat in Lagos.
Participants included filmmakers, musicians, artists, and cultural innovators eager to learn and share experiences.
The highlight of the event was Nigerian-born Hollywood actor Bayo Akinfemi, celebrated for his role in the Emmy-nominated CBS sitcom Bob Hearts Abishola. The event, moderated by Arise TV’s Senior Host, Steve Ayorinde, delved into Akinfemi’s extraordinary journey from Nigeria to Hollywood. Discussions also focused on his dual roles as an actor and dialect coach, as well as his work as a Nigerian culture consultant on the sitcom.
Akinfemi underscored the significance of crafting Nigerian stories with global resonance. “The world is watching Nigerian stories, music, and culture,” he said. “If your content is solely targeted at local audiences, it becomes harder for your work to connect on a global stage.”
Drawing on his Hollywood experiences, which include roles in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Criminal Minds, NCIS: LA, and Survivor’s Remorse, Akinfemi encouraged Nigerian creatives to embrace persistence, resilience, and innovation. A two-time Best Actor GEMINI Awards nominee, Akinfemi also serves as an assistant professor of theatre practice in acting at the University of Southern California, home to the world’s top-ranked cinematic and dramatic arts program.
Nigerian actor Chimezie Imo, known for his role in Amazon Prime’s Breath of Life, praised the event. “Listening to a Nigerian-American who has walked this path was incredibly inspiring. It felt personal and affirmed that global success is within reach,” he said.
Acting U.S. Consul General JoEllen Gorg expressed gratitude to Akinfemi for his invaluable insights and dedication to supporting Nigerian creatives. She reiterated the U.S. government’s commitment to fostering Nigeria’s creative sector through collaborations and cultural exchanges.
Earlier, U.S. Consulate Public Affairs Officer Julie McKay led a session with alumni of various U.S. government exchange programs, such as the International Visitors Leadership Program and the American Film Showcase. These alumni shared experiences from their recent visits to the U.S., further highlighting the benefits of cross-cultural engagement.
This event underscores the growing recognition of Nigeria’s creative industry as a global force and the importance of nurturing talent that tells authentic stories with universal appeal.
