8In a powerful presentation to the House of Representatives on Wednesday, the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy laid out a sweeping vision for transforming Nigeria’s creative sector into a major economic powerhouse—despite challenges of limited funding and infrastructure.
Minister Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa captivated lawmakers as she unveiled an ambitious roadmap that includes establishing a Bollywood-style creative destination, launching a dedicated Nigerian streaming platform, and leveraging international partnerships to export Nigerian culture globally.
“This is more than cultural preservation,” Musawa told the House Committee on Art, Culture and Creative Economy. “It’s about turning our creativity into jobs, into revenue, into national pride.”
The Ministry’s 2025 budget performance report showcased notable achievements tied to its eight-point agenda, including the Nigeria Destination 2030 project, skills development initiatives, strategic policy frameworks, and efforts to protect intellectual property in a fast-evolving digital landscape.
A standout announcement was the Ministry’s successful securing of a French Treasury grant for infrastructure development—proof, Musawa said, that international confidence in Nigeria’s creative economy is growing.
But she also issued a call for urgent collaboration: “We cannot go it alone. Industry leaders, lawmakers, global allies—we all have a role to play in shaping a creative economy that delivers real value.”
Permanent Secretary Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammed, MFR, mni, reinforced this message, highlighting the Ministry’s GDP contribution, increased tourism revenue, and progress in project implementation.
Chairman of the House Committee, Hon. Gabriel Saleh Zok, commended the Ministry’s bold direction and pledged the Committee’s full backing.
“What we’ve seen today is a ministry not just reporting numbers, but showing a clear path to economic transformation. The House will be a willing partner.”
As Nigeria grapples with diversifying its economy, Wednesday’s session underscored the untapped potential of its creative and cultural capital.
The Ministry’s plan, if executed effectively, could place Nigeria at the heart of the global creative economy—generating not just content, but prosperity.
“Our culture is our currency,” Musawa said. “And it’s time to spend it wisely.”
