Culture
FCT minister for State presents Staff of office to Sarkin Bwari
***Canvasses for constitutional role for traditional rulers
The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, on behalf of the FCT Administration, presented the staff of office to Sarkin Bwari, Alhj. Awwal Musa Ijakoro II, who had earlier been crowned by the kingmakers.
A statement issued by her special adviser on Media Austine Elemue quoted the minister to have used the occasion to canvass for continued involvement of the traditional institution in nation-building efforts.
According to her, such roles would create condition for more effective and efficient peace building, and conflict prevention initiatives in Nigeria.
Aliyu disclosed that the crowned Sarkin Bwari is the 5th Sarki who emerged following the demise of his father on the 25th of August 2017, after a successful 41-year reign.
She also pointed out that the FCT Administration had conveyed a letter of appointment to Alhaji Awwal Musa Ijakoro II as a 2nd Class traditional ruler and the 5th Sarkin Bwari, in October 2017.
“Today’s ceremony is to formally present the staff of office to him in continuation of the legacies of his forebears, in the hope that he will provide good leadership, respect constituted authorities and promote harmonious relationships and respect for all tribes and inhabitants of Bwari community and its environs”.
The minister used the occasion to remind graded chiefs and district heads that traditional rulers in both pre-colonial and post-colonial eras contributed immensely to the formation, extension, greatness, and promotion of good relationships among different kingdoms and empires across Nigeria.
Aliyu said; “The traditional institution has brought to bare great cohesion that hav/ sustained the development of political institutions that governed hitherto diverse peoples.
“I want to state unequivocally that with respect to social control, peace and conflict management, there is a strong body of evidence that traditional rulers, though of varied cultures and backgrounds, remain strikingly relevant in our society.
“I, therefore, recommend continued involvement of our traditional institutions in nation-building efforts in ways that would create conditions for more effective and efficient peace building, peace-making and conflict prevention initiatives in Nigeria”.
While lamenting that the role of traditional rulers would be limited without constitutionally acknowledging their relevance, she called on the three tiers of government to pass legislations that recognise the country’s traditional rulers as stakeholders and instruments of conflict management and peace building.
She reiterated the assertion that the staff of office was not just a symbol of authority, but also an instrument for promoting peace building and conflict management especially in the face of increasing insecurity in various parts of the country.
The minister warned that the FCT Administration will not spare any traditional ruler that fails to live up to this expectation, by aiding and abetting criminality in his domain.
“It is not in our character, no matter the level of enticement, to betray the trust bestowed on us. As traditional rulers and the custodian of our traditions, this obligation is even more fundamental.
“Indeed, any betrayal of public trust shall stand condemned and will not be acceptable in the seat of Government where President Muhammadu Buhari is the Governor General,” she further warned.
In his remarks, the Mandate Secretary, FCT Area Council Services Secretariat, Hon. Ibrahim Abubakar Dantsoho, described the event as significant in the history of Bwari chiefdom, while charging the new Sarkin Bwari on safety and security of his domain.
He also charged him to work with other traditional rulers in the territory.
He commended the kingmakers of Bwari chiefdom and the chairman of Bwari area council for the peaceful selection process leading to the event.
The occasion was graced by the Sultan of Sokoto, HRM. Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, who was represented by the Etsu Nupe, Alhj. Yahaya Abubakar, Chairman FCT Council of Chiefs and Ona of Abaji, HRM. Adamu Baba Yunusa, and other first class traditional rulers from within and neighbouring states.
Wives of governor of Kebbi, Yobe, and Zamfarai State were also present.
The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) has proposed a National Tourism Summit to address key challenges in Nigeria’s tourism sector and create a roadmap for sustainable growth.
During a courtesy visit to the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, in Abuja over the weekend, FTAN President Mr. Nkereuwem Onung emphasized the need for a stronger public-private partnership to drive industry development.
He highlighted FTAN’s commitment to supporting government initiatives and praised ongoing legislative efforts to resolve the overlapping functions of the National Institute of Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) and the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (NTDA).
Key Proposals by FTAN included National Tourism Summit where stakeholders will brainstorm to collectively tackle industry challenges.
They also proposed
Council of Tourism Commissioners – To increase state-level participation in tourism development.
“Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) – To measure the sector’s economic impact accurately and address issues like multiple taxation in the hospitality industry.
“Revival of the Presidential Council on Tourism (PCT) – To enhance collaboration between government and private sector players.
“Greater Representation in International Tourism Events – To promote Nigeria as a global tourism destination.
“The tourism sector’s contribution to the economy cannot be overlooked. There is an urgent need for structured collaboration and policies that will unlock its full potential,” Onung stated.
Minister Hannatu Musawa commended FTAN’s proactive approach and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening engagement with private sector players.
Special Adviser on Media to the Minister, Dr. Nneka Ikem Anibeze in a statement quoted her to have said,
“We recognize the critical role of tourism in Nigeria’s economic diversification. The Ministry will work closely with FTAN and other stakeholders to ensure the right policies and frameworks are in place to drive sustainable growth,”
She further revealed that the Ministry is reviving the Presidential Council on Tourism and will deliberate on critical issues during the upcoming National Council of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy meeting in Osogbo next week.
The Minister also confirmed that the National Tourism Summit proposed by FTAN will be a key part of the industry’s development strategy.
“With Destination 2030: Nigeria Everywhere, we are committed to making Nigeria a top tourism hub in Africa. Collaboration with the private sector is crucial to achieving this vision,” Musawa added.
The meeting underscored the shared commitment between FTAN and the Ministry to position Nigeria as a thriving tourism destination through policy reforms, stakeholder engagement, and international visibility.
In a bid to reposition Nigeria as the epicenter of African culture, tourism, and economic growth, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, has partnered with Discover Motherland Africa to launch the Motherland 2025 initiative. 
The project, unveiled at the Abuja Continental Hotel on Monday, is aimed at transforming Nigeria into a global cultural hub, drawing in diaspora communities, investors, and tourists alike.
Speaking at the event, Minister Musawa described Motherland 2025 as “more than a festival”—a transformative movement that aligns with the Federal Ministry’s Destination 2030: Nigeria Everywhere strategy.
She highlighted how the initiative leverages Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential to foster global engagement and drive economic growth.
“Motherland 2025 is more than a festival—it’s a homecoming. A movement inviting our global brothers and sisters to reconnect with their heritage while contributing to Nigeria’s economic and cultural renaissance,” Musawa said. “This is a call to the Diaspora and beyond. From investors and policymakers to cultural leaders and travelers, this initiative invites global stakeholders to experience and invest in Nigeria’s resurgence as a cultural and economic powerhouse.”
A statement be the media adviser to the Minister, Nneka Ikem Anibeze in a statement explained that the initiative includes a wide range of programs designed to engage both Nigerians and the global community in a week-long celebration featuring State Pavilions, Business Exhibitions, and cultural showcases from Nigeria’s 36 states and the FCT.
According to the statement it will also feature A photo and video contest encouraging participants to depict Nigeria’s landscapes, traditions, and communities through visual storytelling.
Explaining further the statement said it will feature a centralized platform simplifying travel logistics for both domestic and international visitors.
A groundbreaking scheme allowing diaspora members and foreign investors to gain citizenship through national development contributions will also be unveiled according to the statement.
The media adviser also pointed out that a dedicated initiative to streamline the integration of diaspora communities into Nigeria’s social and economic landscape.
She said there will be an event recognizing outstanding diaspora leaders who have made significant contributions in their respective fields.
“The festival will conclude with a high-energy concert featuring top Nigerian and international artists, celebrating the nation’s vibrant music scene.
She quoted the minister, Musawa to have also emphasized the need for collaboration between government agencies, ministries, and the private sector to ensure the success of the initiative.
“The success of Motherland 2025 relies on strong partnerships. We invite policymakers, cultural institutions, investors, and development organizations to join forces in shaping Nigeria’s tourism and creative economy,” she said.
In her remarks, Chidimma Nwankwo, Managing Director of Discover Motherland Africa, underscored the initiative’s role in reconnecting the Nigerian diaspora to their roots while unlocking opportunities for investment and cultural pride.
“Motherland is a homecoming. It is a journey. It is a commitment. This December, we invite the global diaspora to experience Nigeria like never before—not as visitors, but as participants in a redefined vision of tourism,” Nwankwo said. “Whether you are part of the diaspora, a first-generation Nigerian, or someone who has never set foot in Nigeria, this is your invitation. Not just to visit, but to engage, to contribute, and to become part of something bigger.”
Motherland 2025 is expected to attract thousands of participants from across the globe, solidifying Nigeria’s role as a leader in Africa’s cultural, economic, and tourism sectors.
***Public-Private Partnership to Transform Cultural, Tourism, Creative Sectors
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the establishment of the Creative and Tourism Infrastructure Corporation (CTIC), a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) designed to bridge the infrastructure gap in Nigeria’s tourism and creative industries.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, was presented at Monday’s FEC meeting and is positioned to drive economic diversification, job creation, and cultural preservation.
Special Adviser on Media & Publicity to the minister, Dr. Nneka Ikem Anibeze in a statement indicated that the
CTIC will operate under a public-private partnership model, attracting local and international investors to fund and develop world-class infrastructure that supports the creative sector.
The goal is to generate $100 billion for the Nigerian economy and create 2 million jobs, aligning with Presidential Priority 7 on economic diversification.
Key Features of CTIC according to the statement included Strategic Partnerships by Engaging AFREXIM, IFC, World Bank, AfDB, AFD, EU, Ford & Rockefeller Foundations, and UNESCO for funding and expertise.
The other feature according to the statement is Governance Structure whereby the Nigerian Government will hold a 25-49% minority stake through the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), ensuring private-sector efficiency and leadership.
The statement listed Flagship Projects to include the rehabilitation of Obudu Resort and Yankari Game Reserve, development of Abuja Creative City and Creation of 5,000 cinema screens nationwide
Others are the Wole Soyinka Creative City in Lagos, Launch of a Centre for African Arts and a New Era for Nigeria’s Creative Economy
Minister Hannatu Musawa emphasized the importance of modern infrastructure in unlocking Nigeria’s full creative potential.
“Everyone recognizes Nigeria’s creativity—our films, music, and fashion dominate globally. But without the right infrastructure, we can’t maximize this potential. Imagine if ‘Detty December’ in Lagos had world-class venues—the economic impact would be exponential.”
The CTIC approval is signal a major shift towards making Nigeria a global hub for tourism, film, music, and cultural heritage, positioning the country as a leading player in the global creative economy.
With FEC’s approval, the government is set to mobilize investors, develop priority projects, and implement innovative financing models to bring this vision to life.
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