By Hauwa’u Sani
Sparklab Innovation Hub convened a one-day Northern Creatives Conference at the Meena Event Centre, bringing together a diverse community of innovators, creators, exhibitors, vendors, and young talents. The forum served as a platform to connect ideas, skills, and opportunities aimed at revitalizing the region’s creative ecosystem.
One of the speakers, Najib Adamu Usman, Esq, described creativity as a “raw material” that eventually evolves into intellectual property. He noted that while many creatives may not be familiar with the laws protecting their work, they are often the primary targets of infringement. This gap, he said, must be closed through awareness and legal protection. He emphasized that copyrighting does not capture the creative process itself but protects the output.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Bashir Abdu Muzakkir highlighted Kano’s pioneering role as the first state to develop a creative economy policy built on eight pillars. He stressed that the energy of young people should drive policy implementation and urged participants to be courageous, forward looking, and committed to serving the future rather than the past.
Students from Bayero University Kano’s Department of Theatre and Performing Arts added a lively touch to the conference with a performance that combined song, drama, and dance an impressive display of youthful creativity.
Another keynote speaker, Malam Yakubu Lamai, emphasized storytelling as humanity’s fundamental search for meaning. He noted that many creatives work within artistic spaces without understanding the historical roots of their craft. According to him, storytelling helps individuals rediscover themselves because it speaks to the “innermost core.” He urged Northern creatives to prioritize originality, reminding them that despite working locally, they are competing on a global stage. “To change our narrative as Northerners, we must know who we are, he said encouraging participants to reconnect with cultural heritage and ancestral wisdom.
Filmmaker Prince Daniel (Aboki) shared insights from his career, mentioning that his Hausa language film, Mai Martaba, which served as Nigeria’s official submission to the 97th Academy Awards, has received 44 nominations. He argued that Northern stories can shine globally when paired with technological innovation. Citing Netflix’s $32 million investment in Nigeria between 2016 and 2022 none of which went to Northern projects, He stressed the need to strengthen creative hubs across the region.
The Andal Science Academy also delivered a stage performance of their poem “Arewa ta Tashi”, a call for Northern resurgence and renewed creative vibrancy.
One of the panelists, an architect, spoke about how storytelling shapes design concepts. She explained how her passion for craft particularly basket weaving helped her gain recognition, including invitations from the U.S. Embassy to speak about her work. She noted that she integrates handmade crafts as gifts in the homes she designs, demonstrating how creativity can drive both personal and professional growth.