Two more leading Nigerian banks Providus Bank and Polaris Bank have joined the list of sponsors for the upcoming QEDNG Creative Powerhouse Summit, adding to support already pledged by First Bank of Nigeria, Nigeria LNG (NLNG) and Shell.
Organised by Mighty Media Plus Network Limited, publishers of QEDNG, the landmark event is set for Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja GRA, Lagos, starting at 10 a.m. Themed “Financing as Catalyst for a Thriving Creative Economy”, the summit will bring together creatives, investors, policymakers, and business leaders to explore practical funding solutions for Nigeria’s creative industries.
Olumide Iyanda, CEO of Mighty Media Plus Network and convener of the summit, described the new sponsorships as a “strong vote of confidence” in the creative sector.
“Providus Bank’s support is a demonstration of its strong commitment to promoting the creative industry,” Iyanda said, citing the bank’s role in the Federal Government’s ₦5 billion Creative Fund, which offers flexible financing to filmmakers and other creatives. He also noted the bank’s involvement in cultural events such as World Poetry Day and The Hive.
On Polaris Bank, Iyanda commended its ₦1.5 billion Creative Sector Fund, launched with Woodhall Capital, the Lagos State Government, and the UK, to finance entrepreneurs in fashion, film, music, and digital content. “They are investing in people with the ideas, talent, and drive to tell authentic stories and export Nigerian culture to the world,” he said. He also praised the bank’s Creative Currency Podcast for connecting creatives with financiers and mentors.
FirstBank’s backing builds on its First@arts initiative, while NLNG is known for its prestigious prizes in literature, science, and literary criticism. Shell’s support reflects its long-standing investment in education and community development.
The QEDNG Creative Powerhouse Summit aims to bridge the gap between creativity and capital, ensuring that Nigeria’s creative economy becomes a major driver of jobs, innovation, and cultural influence.
