NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
General News

Minister pledges action on women’s empowerment

177 total views today

 

 

By Salif Atojoko

Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, has affirmed that the ministry will translate policies into action.

 

This is by ensuring access to justice and economic empowerment for women, children, and vulnerable families.

 

Sulaiman-Ibrahim stated this while addressing State House Correspondents during the Meet-the-Press event on Friday, ahead of International Women’s Day 2025 on Saturday.

 

She emphasised that Nigeria must intensify efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG5) on gender equality by 2030. She acknowledged that many countries are also off track.

 

The Minister outlined four key issues facing women, which her ministry is committed to addressing.

 

First, she highlighted the legal and policy framework, noting Nigeria’s progress in enacting gender-responsive laws such as the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (2015) and the Child Rights Act (2003).

 

However, implementation remains a challenge.

 

“To date, 35 states have domesticated the VARP Act, and 34 states have adopted the Child Rights Act. This is progress, but more is needed,” said Sulaiman-Ibrahim.

 

She stressed the importance of full compliance, effective enforcement, and accountability to make these laws a reality for all Nigerian women and children.

 

The second issue is economic empowerment. Women drive Nigeria’s informal economy, owning 41 per cent of micro, small, and medium enterprises. Yet, access to finance, markets, and digital literacy remains a barrier.

 

“Over 94 per cent of women lack access to formal credit, in spite of their proven ability to invest in their families and communities,” she added.

 

Sulaiman-Ibrahim called for closing the gender financing gap, expanding opportunities in trade, technology, and digital skills, and providing structured support for women entrepreneurs.

 

The Minister also pointed out that over 30 per cent of Nigerian women aged 15 to 49 have experienced physical violence, and one in four girls has been sexually abused before turning 18.

 

She reiterated the need to sustain the state of emergency on gender-based violence declared by the Nigerian Governors Forum in 2020.

 

“The ministry is committed to strengthening survival-centered services and reviewing the Child Rights Act and the VAP Act. We are creating safe spaces nationwide,” she said.

 

Sulaiman-Ibrahim stressed that gender-based violence is a national crisis that undermines collective development, not just a women’s issue.

 

The fourth issue is inadequate political representation and leadership. Women remain vastly underrepresented in decision-making spaces.

 

“In the 10th National Assembly, only four out of 109 senators and 17 out of 360 House members are women. This stark imbalance is not reflective of a progressive democracy,” she stated.

 

She called for accelerated efforts toward political inclusion, ensuring women are not tokenised but are equal partners in governance and development.

 

Sulaiman-Ibrahim also lamented that the ministry’s interventions had largely relied on donor funding, which she described as unsustainable and insufficient.

 

However, she praised President Bola Tinubu for significantly raising the ministry’s budget for the first time, signalling a new commitment to institutionalising women’s empowerment as a core pillar of national development.

 

“This decision marks a new era in government commitment. We will prioritise legislative advocacy, women’s economic empowerment, girls’ education, and the fight against gender-based violence,” she said.

 

The Minister called on every Nigerian woman and child to stand up, step forward, and help shape Nigeria’s future. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Gender

Governance leadership: NEITI boss demands equal representation of women

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By Vivian Emoni
The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), has called for equal representation of women in all levels of governance and leadership in Nigeria.

Dr Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, Secretary-General of NEITI, made the call at the event marking and recognition of the 2025 International Women’s Day, by the office, on Friday in Abuja.

Orji said that the theme of the women day tagged, “Accelerate Action”, emphasised the urgent need to take decisive steps toward achieving gender equality.

He said that the theme would also address the slow pace of progress and empowering women and girls worldwide.

According to him, the theme underscores the urgency of making faster, more efficient strides, to bring together the quest and the desire for more inclusion of women in global and national affairs.

“That is why a day like this is a day for reflection on the imbalance in terms of representation at the level of decision making and others.

“There is always a benefit for women to have their own right at the table where decisions are being made.

“If they are not there, no one else can speak for them better. So when we have more women at the centre of decision making, issues concerning women will be much more taken seriously.

“Women go through a lot to bring up children, especially in Africa where mortality rates for women appear to be higher, because women are exposed to more risk than anyone can explain,” he said.

Orji said that the women day was supposed to be March 8, but NEITI decided to celebrate the day ahead.

The secretary general said that women remained underrepresented in key top positions, often facing barriers that hinder their participation and advancement.

“This disparity not only limits the potential of women in contributing to the world development, it also deprives of diverse perspectives essential for sustainable growth and innovation, ” he said.

He noted that the top high-level management positions in the industry were predominantly occupied by men, adding that it highlighted a critical lack of gender balance in decision-making.

He said that women representation at the federal level had also seen some remarkable progress, adding that more needs to be done to ensure its balance.

The NEITI boss said that the aim of the meeting was to share insight on the legal and policy framework that would promote gender equality, workplace rights, and inclusive governance in Nigeria’s extractive sector.

Mrs Ezinwa Okoroafor, International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), said that the meeting was one of the strategies to advance gender equality.

“As we engage ourselves, we are going to hear things, share different ideas that will bring more understanding and better knowledge of what we can do to advance gender equality.”

Speaking also, Mrs Tengi George-Ikoli, Senior Programme Officer, Natural Resource Governance Institute, said that women had consistently demonstrated competence, resilience and leadership in the oil, gas and mineral sectors.

Geoge-Ikoli said through strong advocacy, more women would have access to opportunities for growth, leadership, and economic empowerment in a sector that had historically been male-dominated.

“Today’s meeting will provide a valuable platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing and strategic collaboration.

“It is my hope that today’s discussions will further inspire actionable steps towards building an inclusive industry,” she said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

Health

Community pharmacists urge govt. to regulate drug distribution

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By Kemi Akintokun

The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Lagos Chapter, has urged the government to establish a proper drug distribution system to combat fake and unregistered drugs in the country.

 

Mr Tolulope Ajayi, the chapter’s chairman, made the appeal on Thursday in Lagos during the association’s Annual General Meeting and Financial and Officers’ Report for 2024.

 

Ajayi said a proper drug distribution system could be achieved by establishing coordinated wholesale centres in different parts of the country.

 

He expressed the association’s support for the ongoing clampdown on fake, unregistered, and expired drugs by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

 

The chairman stated that the creation of such centres would enable proper monitoring, storage, and regulation of drugs, safeguarding the health of Nigerians.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that NAFDAC began enforcement operations on Feb. 10 at the Idumota open drug market, Lagos; Ariaria drug market in Aba; and Bridge Market in Onitsha.

 

According to NAFDAC, these markets distribute over 80 per cent of medications in the country, and the operation aims to eliminate falsified and unregistered drugs.

 

Ajayi said, “It is the government’s role to ensure a proper drug distribution system, and the only way to achieve this is by having a coordinated medicine centre in every state.

 

“Some issues should not be left to market forces. The government must take a stand, especially when public health is at stake.

 

“The discoveries made by NAFDAC in recent weeks are shocking. Open drug markets are vulnerable to adulterated pharmaceutical products that endanger Nigerians.

 

“We support the ongoing enforcement because we believe in ethics and professionalism. The government must strengthen NAFDAC and the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria to enhance their effectiveness.”

 

He attributed the rise in kidney disease and other health issues to fake medicines, stressing that drug sales and distribution should not be handled by non-professionals.

 

The pharmacist urged members to source pharmaceutical products only from dealers registered under the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria (PCN) to ensure public safety. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Economy/Business

FG launches end-of-life vehicle regulation

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By Grace Alegba

 

The Federal Government has pledged its commitment to implementing the End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) Regulation to protect the environment and transform waste into economic opportunities.

 

The Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Sen. John Enoh, made this known at a stakeholders’ engagement organised by the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) on Wednesday in Lagos.

 

He stated that Nigeria has the potential to develop a multi-billion-dollar industry from waste, creating a vast and valuable economic chain.

 

“I don’t think this sector will be sidelined. Instead, it will be empowered. If we establish it now, we will have waste collectors and green entrepreneurs.

 

“A sector worth about 60 billion dollars globally is growing, and Nigeria cannot afford to be left out. Considering our circumstances, we must take a central role.

 

“Of the 500,000 vehicles imported into Nigeria annually, about 400,000 are used. This leaves the country highly exposed to environmental hazards.

 

“This waste is inevitable. It is crucial that we adhere to this regulation, which is designed to protect our environment from the dangers posed by ageing vehicles.

 

“In today’s world, waste is no longer just waste; it is an untapped resource. Used vehicles are no longer discarded but repurposed to create value,” he said.

 

The minister praised NADDC Director-General, Joseph Osanipin, for his dedication to advancing Nigeria’s automotive industry.

 

“We must move beyond mere discussions. We need results and immediate action. I commend the DG for his efforts, which are truly commendable.

 

“Today officially marks the implementation of the ELV regulation. I urge industry players, government agencies, and the public to work together for its success.

 

“We must unite to build a cleaner, safer, and more prosperous Nigeria. This initiative will improve public health and overall well-being.

 

“I commend everyone involved. This sector is vital. In the past, we only paid lip service to it, but now is the time for action,” he said.

 

Experts, including Dr Fyneray Mbata, Mr Idowu Oresanya, Dr Chimere May, and Dr Kemjika Ajoku, presented papers on ELV’s environmental impact and scrap industry transformation.

 

In his welcome address, Osanipin expressed appreciation for stakeholders’ support in making ELV a reality.

 

“Today is a significant milestone in our journey towards a sustainable and environmentally responsible automotive sector in Nigeria.

 

“We are officially launching the ELV regulation, a framework designed to tackle the challenges posed by ageing vehicles.

 

“Nigeria’s automotive industry is evolving rapidly. We must adapt to these changes by aligning with emerging technologies and modernising our approach.

 

“We aim to increase the number of vehicles and locally produced components. However, this growth will also lead to more waste reaching the end of its lifecycle,” he said.

 

Osanipin highlighted that implementing the ELV regulation would create jobs and wealth for at least 40,000 Nigerians.

 

“This initiative promotes a circular economy, generates employment, and fosters technological innovation.

 

“We anticipate the creation of 40,000 direct and indirect jobs, alongside recycling valuable materials and generating substantial revenue.

 

“With this regulation, we will protect the environment and improve road safety. Today’s engagement reflects the collaborative spirit necessary for success.

 

“We are here to work together with all stakeholders,” Osanipin said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

General News

Chamber advocates gender parity to promote women in leadership roles

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By Vivian Emoni

The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has advocated  gender parity to encourage and promote women in leadership roles across the country.

Chief Emeka Obegolu, President of ACCI, made the call at the 2025 Women in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Summit in Abuja on Thursday.

The summit was organised by the Nigerian Chambers of Commerce Dispute Resolution Centre (NCC-DRC) of the ACCI.

Obegolu, who said the theme of the summit was “Pioneering Innovation and Driving Inclusive Change”, added that Nigerians must reflect on the transformative role women play in shaping the future of ADR.

He noted that the summit was a testament to the power of inclusion, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of equity in the dispute resolution landscape.

He further emphasised that women have continually broken barriers, redefining the standards of excellence in mediation, arbitration, and negotiation.

“This is a time when we believe women will make a difference, taking on leadership roles to sustain and accelerate progress.

“Each of us has a role to play. Whether as mentors, allies, policymakers, or practitioners, we must continue to champion the inclusion of women in ADR.

“I call us to commit to advancing gender parity, encouraging equal representation in ADR institutions and leadership roles, mentorship, sponsorship, innovative solutions, and global collaboration,” he added.

Obegolu also highlighted that history showed women have been at the forefront of conflict resolution, both within families and communities, and now in boardrooms, courtrooms, and arbitration panels worldwide.

The president added that innovation in dispute resolution was not solely about technological advancements but also about diverse perspectives, fresh approaches, and inclusion.

He said women were key to achieving inclusive strategies that lead to fairer and more effective outcomes.

“Women bring unique skills and perspectives to ADR.

“By harnessing these tools, we enhance the credibility and accessibility of ADR mechanisms, making them more responsive to the needs of diverse stakeholders.

“Moreover, gender diversity in ADR is not just a moral imperative. It is a business and legal necessity. Inclusive panels and tribunals are more likely to produce balanced, just, and well-reasoned work.

“We are not only strengthening ADR but also reinforcing the principles of justice and fairness that underpin our profession,” Obegolu said.

Mr Adetukunbo Kayode, Chairman of (NCC-DRC), emphasised the need to ensure that dispute resolution mechanisms reflected the diversity of the society they serve.

Kayode called for a strong commitment to mentoring, supporting, and creating pathways for more women to thrive in ADR.

Speaking at the summit, Hajia Hauwa Usman, Registrar-General of the NCC-DRC, said that the centre was aimed at supporting effective dispute resolution.

Usman further stated that the essence of the summit was to drive inclusive change, shaping the future of ADR in innovative, inclusive, and truly transformative ways. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

General News

Convergence of Lent, Ramadan testament to our unity in diversity – Tinubu

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By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu says this year’s convergence of religious observances of Lent and Ramadan is a testament to the unity in diversity that characterises Nigeria.

Tnubu said this in a statement he personally signed on Thursday to extend his heartfelt wishes to all Christian faithful on commencement of the 2025 Lenten season.

“This year’s Lent, a time of devotion and reflection for Christians, coincided with the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims, a season that similarly emphasised devotion, sacrifice and acts of kindness.

“This period of reflection coincides with encouraging progress in our nation. We ended 2024 positively, as our economy showed strong growth in the last quarter compared to the same period in 2023.

“Food prices are declining, the exchange rate is stabilising, fuel prices are dropping, and our internal security is strengthening.

“Our security and law enforcement agencies are making commendable strides. This progress fills us with steadfast hope and optimism for the future,” said the President.

Tinubu extended heartfelt wishes to all Christians in Nigeria and worldwide who partake in the sacred time.

Specifically, he urged the Christian faithful to embrace the love of Jesus Christ by showing compassion and empathy to those around them.

The President prayed that as Christians journeyed through the Lenten season with penitence and steadfast devotion to God Almighty, may His kindness bring healing to the sick, prosperity and peace to the nation.

“May we experience God’s goodness in a profound way this Lenten season. May He renew our hearts, strengthen our faith, and guide us on righteousness,” concluded Tinubu. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

 

General News

Be proud of National Theatre, defend it – CBN Governor

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By Grace Alegba

Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, has called on Nigerians to take ownership of the revitalised National Arts Theatre as a vital repository of the nation’s history and culture.

Cardoso made the call during an inspection of the Lagos landmark alongside members of the Bankers’ Committee on Thursday.

The governor commended the vision and resources of the Bankers’ Committee on the project.

He highlighted the significant cultural value of the National Arts Theatre, emphasising that it embodies the essence of the Nigerian people.

Cardoso noted that the creative sector has the potential to generate an estimated 25 billion dollars, acting as a powerful engine for broader economic growth.

He said that the years of neglect had led to the theatre’s decline since its heyday during and after FESTAC 77.

He expressed his satisfaction with the current restoration, noting that the project meets international standards.

“This is a giant leap forward, a source of immense pride for all Nigerians.

“Moving forward, it’s crucial that we all, not just the Bankers’ Committee, take responsibility for safeguarding this national treasure,” the governor said.

He emphasised that the restoration was driven by a desire to unlock the creative sector’s potential for Nigeria’s youth.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the renovation of the National Arts Theatre began in July 2021, following approval by the Federal Government and the subsequent handover of the national edifice to the Bankers’ Committee.

The monument is expected to be a vibrant creative and entertainment hub, generating jobs, boosting income and attracting foreign exchange.

It will also provide essential community spaces for young Nigerians to flourish.

The extensive renovation encompasses numerous areas, including the 4,000-seat main bowl, the 3,000-seat banquet hall, exhibition halls, cinemas, VIP areas, and essential facilities like kitchens, clinics, and fire stations.

The project also includes comprehensive roof repairs and the installation of over 300 new toilet cubicles. (NAN)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Health

FG employs 774 health fellows

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By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu has approved the employment of 774 National Health Fellows, an initiative led by the Federal Ministry of Health to foster sustained improvements within Nigeria’s healthcare system.

President Tinubu announced the fellows’ employment on Thursday during the inauguration of the programme at the State House.

Tinubu praised the bold initiative and the rigorous selection process, highlighting its significance.

“This programme is a transformative initiative that underscores my administration’s commitment to harnessing the immense potential of Nigeria’s greatest asset – its young people.

“With over 60 per cent of Nigerians under 30, we boast one of the most energetic, resourceful, and dynamic youth populations globally. This presents unparalleled opportunities to drive innovation, economic prosperity, and social transformation,” stated the President.

He said the National Health Fellows initiative was part of several platforms provided by his administration to empower Nigerian youths, enabling them to excel and contribute to national development.

The President encouraged the fellows, pioneers in the health service programme, to fully embrace the opportunities and view themselves as future leaders of Nigeria’s health care system.

“Your selection is more than a recruitment; it proves our commitment to creating a nation where equal opportunities are available to every Nigerian, irrespective of social status, gender, or creed.

“You are this country’s greatest asset, and we are committed to fostering a bright future where Nigeria stands as a nation of pride for all,” the President affirmed.

Tinubu emphasised the programme’s vision to cultivate a pipeline of health leaders to drive meaningful, sustained change and innovation within Nigeria’s healthcare sector.

“Healthcare is a critical pillar of national development. No country can thrive if its people are unhealthy. An unsustainable health program poses risks, while sustainable development hinges on a robust healthcare system.

“You are the pillars of this vision, and I am proud to be here with you today,” he said.

Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, said the 774 fellows would play a crucial role in revolutionising Nigeria’s health sector.

“The social movement to improve the health of Nigerians has begun, and we are already witnessing positive results,” he said.

Mr Wale Edun, Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Ayodele Olawande, Youth Minister and Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, offered the fellows additional encouragement with inspiring messages.

The employment of the fellows, selected from each local council, stemmed from the recommendation of Pate, who lauded their selection as the best among 360,000 applicants, underscoring the merit-based nature of the process.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

Banking

Wema Bank to boost entrepreneurship, investment with Hackaholics 6.0

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By Taiye Olayemi

Wema Bank says it aims to further stimulate entrepreneurship, attract investment, and accelerate Nigeria’s economic development by fostering a thriving technology ecosystem that complements the creative economy.

Executive Director, Retail and Digital Business, Wema Bank, Mr Tunde Mabawonku, disclosed this at a news conference on call for applications for the sixth edition of the bank’s Hackaholics 6.0 initiative,  in Lagos.

Hackaholics 6.0 focuses on attracting “bold, cutting-edge solutions” in key sectors like AI, blockchain, renewable energy, customer experience, and cybersecurity.

He explained that the innitiative aligns with the bank’s strategic vision for its 80th anniversary in 2025, while it serves as a platform for developing solutions that address critical economic challenges.

According to him, the programme has the potential to generate innovations that create new avenues for economic activity and job creation, and has recorded past successes in areas like transportation and healthcare.

He emphasised that with the inmitiative, the bank focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education and technological innovation as essential for future economic competitiveness.

Similarly, Chief Transformation Officer, Wema Bank, Mr Babatunde Mumuni, said that the bank had continued to give support to innovative start-ups to progress.

He said, “From inception to date, we have had a total of 18 winners and we have given out about 200,000 U.S. dollars in grants to all the winners from inception to date.

“As the years have passed, we have continued to increase the prize money. And note that by saying grants, the focus of the bank has basically been to find ways to empower these guys to progress.”

Head of Innovation, Mr Solomon Ayodele, said the theme of the 2025 innovation programme is, “Steep beyond algorithms, engineering, disruptive innovation”.

According to him, the innitiative aims to position Africa at the forefront of global technology and will feature a dual-track approach for technical talent and high-growth startups, focusing on verticals like customer experience and financial inclusion.

He explained that Regional hackathons would be held across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and Lagos, culminating in a grand finale.

Expanding its reach, he said that the programme would also include events in Accra, Ghana, and Kigali in Rwanda, acknowledging the growing number of applications from these regions.

Ayodele emphasised the programme’s accessibility, welcoming applications from various tech professionals and startups.

He noted that finalists would have the opportunity to join an accelerator programme, gaining access to resources and potential funding.

Past participants, such as Sophia Sadeeq, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MyTherapist.ng, and Ugonna Ginigeme, CEO of FIGO, shared their success stories.

Sadeeq, winner of the Women-Led Prize, praised the programme’s mentorship and networking opportunities.

Ginigeme, winner of the MetaLog Prize, highlighted the significant partnership opportunities with the bank.

Both entrepreneurs encouraged startups to apply, citing the programme’s transformative impact. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Culture & Tourism

FG partners Creative Park Ltd. on 30-hectare creative city in Abuja

355 total views today

 

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

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