In a renewed push for Pan-African cooperation, Nigeria and Uganda are deepening their cultural and diplomatic ties, setting the stage for greater regional integration. This commitment was underscored on Tuesday when a high-powered Ugandan delegation, led by senior military officers, visited the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy in Abuja.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, the Head of the Department of Cultural Industries and Heritage, Rev. Canon Anamah N.U.B, Ph.D., emphasized that Nigeria and Uganda share a long history of resilience in the face of colonial legacies, ethnic tensions, and governance challenges.
He highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy in uniting African nations beyond political and economic partnerships.
Special Adviser on Media and publicity to the minister, Dr. Nneka Ikem Anibeze in a statement explained the visit reaffirmed Nigeria’s vision to use culture as a driver of economic transformation. “Nigeria and Uganda have always maintained strong diplomatic relations, but this engagement goes beyond politics. Our culture is a powerful tool for unity, development, and global recognition,” Rev. Anamah stated.
He cited previous bilateral agreements, including the 1988 Technical Aid Corps program and the 1990 bilateral trade and technical cooperation agreements, as evidence of the longstanding partnership. However, he stressed that the time had come to move beyond policy documents to actionable programs that empower Africans through cultural exchange and creative industries.
Rev. Anamah also reiterated Nigeria’s ambition to become Africa’s creative capital by 2030. “Under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, we are expanding skill acquisition and cultural education across the six geopolitical zones to not only preserve our heritage but also create sustainable economic opportunities,” he added. 
Major General George Igumba, who led the Ugandan delegation, described the visit as an opportunity to study Nigeria’s strategies in diplomacy, security, and national development. He emphasized that Uganda had made significant progress in addressing issues like poverty, disease, and insecurity but sought Nigeria’s experience in tackling complex national challenges.
“We are here to learn from Nigeria, to enrich our understanding of governance, security, and cultural growth. As we strive to build a more stable and prosperous Uganda, we recognize the importance of engaging with African leaders who have navigated similar challenges,” General Igumba stated.
As part of the visit, the delegation attended a presentation on the *Effects of Colonialism on Cultural Heritage*, which explored how historical legacies continue to shape contemporary African societies. The discussion underscored the need for African nations to reclaim their narratives and strengthen indigenous institutions.
The engagement between Nigeria and Uganda represents a broader vision for African unity—one that leverages shared histories and cultural ties to foster peace, economic progress, and global influence. By strengthening collaborations in tourism, creative industries, and governance, both nations are laying the foundation for a more self-reliant and integrated Africa.
As African countries continue to push for continental self-sufficiency, Nigeria and Uganda’s growing partnership serves as a model for how cultural diplomacy can drive long-term development and stability across the region.
Major General George Igumba and Rev. Canon Anamah
