The Federal Government has unveiled plans to establish ‘Renewed Hope Cultural Villages’ in all 36 states as part of efforts to promote Nigeria’s cultural heritage and boost the creative sector.
Speaking to journalists in Ilorin, Kwara State, the Special Assistant to the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Abiola Jagunlabi, stated that the initiative is a key component of the ‘Renewed Hope Cultural Project’ aimed at preserving traditions, enhancing tourism, and fostering economic growth.
Cultural Villages to Serve as Creative Hubs
Jagunlabi explained that the cultural villages would be developed in collaboration with state governments to revitalize historic sites into creative hubs. These hubs will serve as centers for arts, entertainment, and cultural education, while also stimulating job creation and economic development.
The initiative will focus on:
- Restoring and conserving historic sites, monuments, palaces, and artifacts
- Enhancing cultural education and capacity-building in local crafts
- Boosting tourism and revenue generation through creative enterprises
Stakeholder Collaboration Key to Project Success
The success of the project, Jagunlabi noted, depends on active participation from state governments, local communities, and cultural stakeholders.
“By working together, Nigeria can unlock the transformative power of its arts, culture, tourism, and creative industries for sustainable development and social cohesion,” he said.
He added that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, with the potential to generate thousands of jobs and significantly contribute to Nigeria’s economy.
Minister’s Commitment to Growing the Creative Sector
Jagunlabi reaffirmed the commitment of the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, to strengthening Nigeria’s creative industry through innovative programs and policies.
He highlighted ongoing efforts to build collaborations that will open up employment opportunities for Nigerian youth while supporting economic diversification.
The National Economic Council (NEC) has already approved the project, paving the way for its implementation and the transformation of Nigeria’s creative sector.
