Popular Nigerian skit maker and actor Broda Shaggi has identified the lack of access to funding—not a shortage of talent or ideas—as the most significant obstacle facing the country’s creative industry.
In a recent post on Instagram, Shaggi stressed that many content creators struggle not because of a lack of creativity, but because they can’t secure the financial backing needed to grow their projects or scale their work.
IP as the Key to Unlocking Financing
Highlighting the importance of intellectual property (IP), he urged creatives to see their work as valuable assets that can generate real wealth if properly leveraged.
He argued that intellectual property should be treated like other forms of collateral that can unlock financing from investors or institutions, paving the way for greater innovation and sustainable career growth.
“One of the biggest hurdles we face in the creative world isn’t talent or ideas, it’s access to funding,” he wrote. “So here’s the real question: How can we, as creatives, unlock financing by leveraging our Intellectual Property (IP) as collateral?”
“Content is the New Crude”
Drawing a compelling analogy, Broda Shaggi compared creative content to crude oil—an asset with massive economic potential when properly harnessed.
“I recently had the privilege of attending a powerful event hosted by the CREAM platform where thought leaders dove deep into this exact topic,” he shared. “The key takeaway? Content is the new crude. Just like oil built empires, your creative output has massive untapped value.”
Encouragement for Fellow Creators
Broda Shaggi concluded his message with a call to action for fellow creatives: keep creating, and recognize the value of their work beyond entertainment.
“So if you’re a creative, keep creating,” he urged. “Your IP isn’t just art, it’s an asset. One that can open doors to millions, even billions.”
His comments come at a time when Nigeria’s creative industry—from music and film to comedy and digital content—is increasingly recognized as a vital part of the country’s economy, yet still struggles with limited access to structured financing and investment.