On Wednesday, the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy presented its 2024 budget performance report before the House of Representatives Committee on Art, Culture, and Creative Economy. The presentation took place at the National Assembly complex and detailed the ministry’s achievements, ongoing challenges, and strategic direction.
During the session, the Honourable Minister, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, provided a thorough overview of the ministry’s operations, anchored on its visionary eight-point agenda. This agenda covers a range of initiatives, including the Nigeria Destination 2030 tourism plan, digital innovation, skills acquisition, the preservation of Nigeria’s cultural heritage, policy development, safeguarding of intellectual property, establishment of strategic partnerships, and setting measurable goals for sectoral growth.
Musawa acknowledged the limitations posed by inadequate infrastructure and budgetary constraints but highlighted the ministry’s determination to advance the cultural and creative sectors. She noted that despite the challenges, progress had been made in raising the profile of Nigerian culture and enhancing the economic impact of the creative industries. The minister emphasized the importance of collaboration, urging all stakeholders—including industry professionals, international allies, and the legislature—to work together in achieving shared goals. “Our aim,” she said, “is to elevate Nigerian culture to a prominent place in global dialogue.”
Looking ahead, Musawa revealed ambitious plans such as the development of a Nigerian cultural hub modeled after Bollywood and the creation of a national streaming service to promote local content. She also disclosed that the ministry had secured a grant from the French Treasury to enhance infrastructure in the sector.
The ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammed, added that the ministry is making tangible economic contributions, including through tourism revenues and creative project outputs. He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to transparency and accountability in all undertakings.
Responding to the report, the Committee Chairman, Hon. Gabriel Saleh Zock, praised the ministry for its innovative programs and pledged legislative support to help realize its objectives. He emphasized that budget assessments are crucial to ensuring funds are effectively utilized and called for stronger collaboration to unlock the full potential of the cultural and creative economy.
The review session offered lawmakers valuable insight into how the ministry is leveraging arts and culture to promote national development, diversify the economy, and elevate Nigeria’s global cultural presence.