Mine Nigeria’s Creative Riches, Shape Global Narrative, Minister Tells Stakeholders

The Minister of Arts, Culture & Creative Economy, Hon. Hannatu Musawa, has called upon all stakeholders in the arts and culture industry to rally behind the new initiatives of the ministry. She emphasized the need to move the ministry towards a positive trajectory.

Addressing the remarkable strides and global successes achieved by Nigerian musicians and movies in recent times, Musawa underscored the importance of capitalizing on and consolidating these gains. She urged stakeholders and creatives to join forces in leveraging this momentum to develop infrastructure and establish a sustainable ecosystem where arts and creatives can thrive.

Highlighting the significant role of arts and culture in job creation and economic value generation, Musawa, as a guest speaker, participated in a session themed ‘Mining Nigeria’s Creative Goldmine’ at the Entertainment Weekly Lagos event held at Livesppt Emporium, Lekki.

While speaking via Zoom from Abuja, the Minister lauded the event’s impact and acknowledged the industry’s milestones on a global scale. She praised the resilience and unwavering dedication of Nigerian artists and moviemakers, noting that this has propelled arts, culture, and creativity to become not only the nation’s mainstay but also a driving force behind unprecedented economic growth that influences the global economy.

She emphasized Nigeria’s robust creative and cultural relations, exemplified by the successful exportation of vibrant cultural elements, including music, movies, and literature. Musawa urged stakeholders to harness this power to shape Nigeria’s narrative globally.

### Developing Nigeria’s Creative and Cultural Space

Addressing the need for infrastructure development and a sustainable ecosystem, Musawa highlighted the immense potential of arts and culture in addressing contemporary challenges. She underscored the critical role of these sectors in creating jobs and fostering economic growth.

Expressing her commitment to fostering growth and inclusivity within the entertainment industry, Musawa assured unwavering support for infrastructure development, funding access, and championing diversity within the sector.

Earlier discussions during the panel on ‘Mining Nigeria’s Creative Goldmine’ underscored the necessity of leveraging recent industry successes and understanding the boundaries in developing value chains within the creative sector. The panel was hosted by Ken Anyanwu and featured prominent personalities including the founder of Africa International Film Festival, AFRIFF – Chioma Ude; Tolu Ogunlesi – writer and former Special Assistant to ex-President Buhari on Digital media; and Titi Ogufere – author, interior designer, and CEO of Essential Media Group.