Osun Hosts 2025 SDG Conference, Leads in Creative Economy

Creativity, innovation, and culture will take centre stage as the Osun State SDG Creatives Conference 2025 kicks off from 28th to 30th January at the SDG Skill Acquisition Centre in Iragbiji, Osun State

Themed “Innovate, Create, and Transform: Unlocking the Creative Economy for Sustainable Development,” the event aims to highlight the vital role creativity plays in driving economic growth and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The three-day conference will gather creative professionals, policymakers, industry leaders, and thought influencers to explore how Osun State can harness its cultural and artistic assets to advance the SDGs.

Particular focus will be placed on three SDGs: Goal 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth; Goal 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure; and Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities. The event also seeks to position Osun State as a leading force in the creative economy.

Bamikole Omishore, Special Adviser on Sustainable Development Goals to Osun state Governor, Ademola Adeleke, said the conference reflects the administration’s commitment to using creativity as a catalyst for economic development.

“This event, with over 700 registered participants, is in line with Governor Adeleke’s agenda to stimulate economic growth by harnessing creativity and innovation. Through collaboration with the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Culture and Tourism, Agency on Creativity, Entertainment and Arts ,stakeholders, private sector leaders, and development partners, who have worked relentlessly to bring this groundbreaking conference to life,” Omishore explained.

The conference will feature a variety of interactive sessions, exhibitions, and cultural displays designed to inspire and empower participants. Key themes will include unlocking creativity for global opportunities, exploring investment opportunities in Osun’s digital and creative sectors, and shaping narratives for change and influence, alongside a cultural and Adire exhibition.

Hon. Adewumi Adeyemi (Irekandu), Chairman of the House of Assembly Committees on ICT and SDG, spoke about the importance of the initiative.

“The Osun State SDG Creatives Conference 2025 highlights the essential role of creativity and culture in achieving sustainable development. By fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation, this conference will help to build a more inclusive, resilient, and vibrant creative economy. We also hope that this event will provide a sustainable framework to push Osun’s creative sector forward,” he said.

Hon. Azeez Badmus, Special Adviser on Innovation, Science, and Technology, added that “through the Osun SDG Creatives Conference, innovators and creators will drive Osun’s digital future, inspiring the youth to uncover their talents, share their unique stories, and shape their futures through the power of technology.”