By Salif Atojoko

The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy (FMACTCe) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Creative Park Ltd. to establish a creative park, in Idu, Abuja

The 30-hectare Creative City in Abuja is aimed at transforming Nigeria’s creative and cultural industries.

The MoU was signed on Thursday in Abuja by Hannatu Musawa, the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy and Mr Bayo Omoboriowo, Chief Executive Officer, Creative Park Ltd.

Musawa said the MoU would set the framework for a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) designed to drive economic diversification, empower creative talent and boost cultural tourism.

She said that the Creative Park, conceived as a world-class hub, would offer state-of-the art infrastructure, training, and investment opportunities, positioning Nigeria as a global leader in the creative economy.

The Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for the creative sector to thrive.

”Today is a day I am extremely proud of because I can see President Tinubu’s vision coming to fruition. Being Nigerian is one of the greatest honours of my life.

“The vision of President Bola Tinubu is not just about building the creative industry; it is about empowering future generations.

“When you step into Nigeria, you feel a different energy. We are a great people, and it is because of our content and creativity,” she said.

The Minister added that the creative industry had the greatest power of messaging with the ability to reach and empower Nigerians across socio-economic backgrounds.

“Not every Nigerian can be a lawyer, benefit from oil wealth or attend on Ivy league schools.

“But every Nigerian, whether in a rural or urban community, has the ability to create content on their phone, become an influencer, or express their cultural identity.

“This industry has the ability to change Nigeria’s image and reposition the country on a global stage,” she said.

She commended Omoboriowo, former official photographer to President Muhammadu Buhari, for his dedication to the creative industry and his commitment to national development.

“This PPP is in safe hands because it is in the hands of people who care about the creative industry and are deeply rooted in the industry.

“This park is going to be the direct personification of the great vision for Nigeria as Africa’s creative and cultural hub,” Musawa added.

Omoboriowo in his remarks described the initiative as a transformative step toward unlocking Nigeria’s creative potential.

”Through Abuja Creativity City, we are laying the foundation for a thriving ecosystem where creativity meets opportunity; where ideas become industries; and where culture drives economic growth.

”This 30-hectare hub will be a space where artists, designers, entrepreneurs, and cultural practitioners can come together to build, innovate, and create lasting impact.

“More importantly, it will be a catalyst for job creation and poverty reduction, addressing some of the most pressing socio-economic challenges facing Nigeria today.

”This initiative is not just about infrastructure and investment; it is about people – about empowering Nigeria’s creative talents, preserving our cultural heritage, and unlocking the immense potential within our creative economy,” he said.

According to Omoboriowo, the partnership brings together the government, the private sector, international development organisations, and key stakeholders who share a common vision of a creative Africa that is bold, innovative, and globally competitive.

“Under the agreement, the ministry will provide policy support, facilitate access to financing opportunities, and coordinate inter-agency collaboration to ensure seamless project execution.

“The Creative Park Ltd. will oversee the design, development, and operational management of the Creative City, working closely with private investors to ensure long-term sustainability.

“The MoU, which will be in effect for an initial period of five years, aligns with the Federal Government’s strategy to harness the creative economy as a key driver of national development,” Omoboriowo said.

The collaboration is expected to generate employment opportunities, support local content production, and enhance Nigeria’s global creative footprint. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker