Enugu State has taken another bold step in positioning itself as a hub for innovation and the global creative economy, as the first cohort of the Enugu Magic Labs Animation Training Program (EMAT) successfully graduated after completing months of intensive training in digital animation and creative technology.
The groundbreaking initiative, facilitated by the Enugu MSME & Startup Agency (Enugu SME Center) in partnership with Magic Lab Academy, is part of the broader vision of the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, to build a future-ready workforce powered by digital skills and creativity.
Over the past four months, the young participants underwent rigorous technical training covering 2D Illustration, 3D Motion Design, animation storytelling, and digital production. The programme was designed to equip the trainees with globally competitive skills required to thrive in the rapidly expanding global animation and digital content industry, currently valued at over $390 billion.
The graduation ceremony marked not just the completion of a training programme but the beginning of new opportunities for the beneficiaries, many of whom are expected to plug into the international creative ecosystem through freelance work, studio collaborations, and digital content production.
Speaking on the initiative, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah reiterated his administration’s commitment to preparing young people in Enugu State for the digital future.
According to him, the state government is deliberately investing in initiatives that will position its youths as global competitors in emerging industries.
“The future of our economy lies in the hands of digitally skilled young people. Our job as government is to create the platform for them to compete globally,” the governor stated.
Through the leadership of the Enugu MSME & Startup Agency, the graduates are leaving the programme with far more than certificates. They are also gaining access to internship pipelines, freelance opportunities, studio collaborations, and exposure to global creative platforms that will help accelerate their careers in the creative and digital economy.
Observers say the initiative further underscores Enugu State’s growing reputation as one of Nigeria’s most forward-thinking states in youth empowerment, innovation, and digital transformation.
With the success of the first cohort, the organisers have already opened applications for EMAT Cohort 2, offering more residents of the state the opportunity to acquire world-class training in animation, design, storytelling, and digital creativity.
Interested applicants can apply through the official portal: www.enugusme.en.gov.ng/emat�.
As Enugu continues to invest in human capital development and emerging industries, many believe the state is steadily carving a place for itself in Africa’s evolving digital and creative economy.
Indeed, from Enugu to the global stage, a new generation of African creators is rising — and Enugu State is helping lead the way.
