YOLA — Attention on arts development in Yola shifted towards the implementation of practical workshops as stakeholders continued efforts to strengthen creative skills and encourage greater participation in the arts. The initiative was expected to provide opportunities for young people and other aspiring creatives to develop their abilities while gaining a better understanding of the creative industry. Arts and cultural activities remained an important part of community life in Adamawa State, with artists, performers and cultural practitioners contributing to the preservation and promotion of local culture. Stakeholders said structured workshops could help provide the knowledge and practical experience needed by people seeking to build careers in creative fields. The workshops were also seen as an opportunity to expose participants to different aspects of the arts, including performance, visual arts, creative writing, music and other forms of artistic expression. Stakeholders maintained that practical training was important because many young people interested in creative careers lacked access to professional guidance and appropriate facilities. They called for programmes that would connect aspiring artists with experienced practitioners who could provide mentorship and technical knowledge. Attention was also drawn to the potential economic value of the creative sector. Stakeholders said the arts could provide employment and entrepreneurial opportunities when properly supported, particularly for young people looking for alternatives to traditional forms of employment. They encouraged authorities and private organisations to invest in creative initiatives and provide platforms where artists could display and develop their work. The implementation of arts workshops was expected to involve collaboration among cultural organisations, artists, community groups and other stakeholders. Participants said such cooperation would help ensure that training responded to the needs of aspiring creatives and reflected opportunities available within the industry. They also stressed the importance of providing adequate materials and equipment so that participants could gain practical experience during the sessions. Stakeholders further called for continuity rather than one-off programmes. They argued that regular workshops, exhibitions and performances would give participants opportunities to continue developing their skills and building professional networks. Such activities could also help attract greater public interest in the arts and encourage young people to consider creative careers. The initiative came at a time when the creative sector was increasingly being recognised as an avenue for youth development and economic activity. Stakeholders in Yola said greater support for arts programmes could contribute to cultural development while providing productive opportunities for young people. They urged organisers and relevant authorities to maintain focus on implementation and ensure that planned workshops reached their intended participants. As attention shifted towards putting the programme into practice, arts stakeholders looked forward to opportunities for participants to acquire new skills, interact with experienced practitioners and explore possible careers in the creative sector. They maintained that sustained support and effective implementation would be important to making the initiative meaningful for Yola's growing community of young creatives.