CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
The self-employed artist sector in Nigeria presents a dynamic landscape marked by both challenges and opportunities. As individuals pursuing their passion in creative expression, artists face unique hurdles in a country where infrastructural deficiencies, economic instability, and socio-political factors intersect. However, amidst these challenges lie abundant opportunities for artistic innovation, cultural exchange, and economic growth. This analysis seeks to delve into the multifaceted nature of the challenges confronting self-employed artists in Nigeria while also exploring the avenues through which they can harness their talents to navigate and capitalize on the diverse opportunities available. Ajayi, T., & Adesina, S. (2020).
Challenges faced by self-employed artists in Nigeria encompass a broad spectrum of issues ranging from limited access to resources and funding to inadequate intellectual property protection and market saturation. The absence of robust support systems and institutional frameworks tailored to the needs of artists exacerbates these challenges, hindering their capacity for sustainable growth and development. Additionally, socio-political factors such as censorship, cultural stigmatization, and insecurity further complicate the landscape for artists, constraining their freedom of expression and creative autonomy. Ojo, A. (2019).
Despite the myriad challenges, self-employed artists in Nigeria also encounter numerous opportunities for advancement and success. The country's rich cultural heritage, diverse artistic traditions, and burgeoning creative industries provide a fertile ground for innovation and collaboration. Moreover, advancements in technology and the increasing interconnectedness of global markets offer artists unprecedented access to audiences and opportunities for exposure. By leveraging these resources and tapping into emerging trends, artists can carve out niches for themselves, establish sustainable livelihoods, and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria's cultural and economic landscape. Okoye, I. (2021).
In navigating the complexities of the self-employed artist sector in Nigeria, it is imperative to consider insights and perspectives from various scholarly works and industry analyses. This paper draws upon a selection of pertinent references including scholarly articles, reports, and case studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities confronting self-employed artists in Nigeria. Through an interdisciplinary approach, this analysis aims to shed light on actionable strategies and interventions that can empower artists to overcome obstacles, maximize their potential, and thrive in a rapidly evolving socio-economic context. Salami, B., & Adeoye, T. (2018).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The self-employed artist community in Nigeria faces a myriad of challenges that hinder their ability to thrive and contribute fully to the cultural and economic landscape of the nation. Foremost among these challenges is the lack of adequate support structures and institutional frameworks tailored to the unique needs of artists. Without access to essential resources such as funding, mentorship programs, and affordable workspaces, artists struggle to sustain their creative practices and achieve financial stability. Additionally, the absence of robust intellectual property protection further compounds the challenges, leaving artists vulnerable to exploitation and undermining their incentive to innovate. Ajayi, T., & Adesina, S. (2020).
Moreover, socio-political factors such as censorship, cultural stigmatization, and insecurity present significant barriers to artistic expression and autonomy. The imposition of restrictive regulations and the suppression of dissenting voices not only curtail artistic freedom but also limit the scope of artistic exploration and cultural exchange. Furthermore, the pervasive climate of insecurity in certain regions of Nigeria poses tangible threats to the physical safety and well-being of artists, inhibiting their mobility and inhibiting their ability to fully engage with their communities and wider audiences. In light of these challenges, there is an urgent need to comprehensively examine the systemic issues that impede the growth and development of self-employed artists in Nigeria and to identify strategic interventions that can foster a more conducive environment for artistic creativity and innovation. . Ojo, A. (2019).Top of Form
Bottom of Form
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine analysis of the challenges and opportunities of self-employed artist in Nigeria. Specific objectives of the study are:
- 1. To identify the key challenges faced by self-employed artists in Nigeria.
- 2. To analyze the potential opportunities available to self-employed artists in the Nigerian context.
- To evaluate the strategies self-employed artists in Nigeria employ to overcome challenges and capitalize on opportunities.
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- 1. What are the most prevalent financial challenges faced by self-employed artists in Nigeria, and how do these challenges impact their livelihood and artistic practice?
- 2. How do factors like access to technology, infrastructure, and government support influence the opportunities available to self-employed artists in Nigeria compared to artists in other countries?
- What successful strategies do self-employed artists in Nigeria utilize to market their work, secure clients, and build sustainable careers, and how can these strategies be shared and disseminated to support the wider artistic community?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no statistical significant impact of challenges and opportunities and self-employed artist in Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the Fine and Applied Arts sector. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to Uyo Metropolis. Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
REFERENCES
Ajayi, T., & Adesina, S. (2020). "The Economic Challenges of Artists in Nigeria." Journal of Arts Management, Law, and Society, 50(2), 147-161.
Ojo, A. (2019). "Creative Economy and the Challenges of Artists in Nigeria." Journal of African Studies and Development, 11(4), 45-57.
Okoye, I. (2021). "Intellectual Property Rights Protection in the Nigerian Creative Industry: A Case Study of Visual Artists." International Journal of Law and Legal Studies, 9(1), 32-47.
Salami, B., & Adeoye, T. (2018). "The Role of Technology in Empowering Nigerian Artists." African Journal of Science, Technology, Innovation, and Development, 10(3), 267-282.
Yusuf, H. A., & Adebayo, B. A. (2017). "Cultural Policy and the Development of Visual Arts in Nigeria." International Journal of Arts and Humanities, 6(3), 12-25.
