FG, States, Private Sector to Boost Creative Economy Through Culture and Fashion — Minister
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to working closely with all 36 states and the private sector to grow Nigeria’s creative economy to $100 billion.
Speaking at a dinner in Abeokuta hosted by the Lai Labode Heritage Foundation, Musawa revealed that a memo has been approved by the Federal Executive Council to document cultural values and unique state identities. The goal is to use cultural creativity to drive national economic growth.
Ogun State to Host Fashion Olympics
Musawa announced the Federal Government’s readiness to support Ogun State and the Lai Labode Heritage Foundation in organizing a major international event—the Fashion Olympics—scheduled for 2026. The event aims to attract 50 African countries and spotlight Nigeria’s fashion industry on a global stage.
“The best way we can grow is by working together. We must partner across government levels and the private sector to promote our cultural and creative potential,” Musawa said.
Adire Fridays and Tourism Growth in Ogun
Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by his deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, said Ogun State is actively promoting its cultural identity by making it mandatory for civil servants to wear Adire every Friday. This move has helped boost Adire production, empowered local entrepreneurs, and created jobs.
The governor also emphasized the state’s investments in tourism, including heritage sites like Olumo Rock and other creative sectors like music, film, and sport tourism.
“We must stop working in silos. True growth in our creative economy will only happen when the federal government, states, and private sector come together to harness Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.”
— Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy
Egbaland Leads the Fashion Revolution
Chief Lai Labode, founder of the Lai Labode Heritage Foundation and promoter of Egbaliganza, said Egbaland is committed to taking Africa’s fashion share from 1.2% of the $30 billion global fashion market to a $500 billion industry. He announced that Egbaland would sign historic charters in 2026, including the Africa Fashion Olympics charter.
Chief Abdulhakeem Owolabi also revealed plans to establish a National Cultural Heritage Museum under a Public-Private Partnership to preserve Nigeria’s diverse culture and promote tourism and education.
Nigeria’s creative and cultural industries are gaining renewed focus, with coordinated efforts from federal and state governments, as well as private foundations. If well implemented, initiatives like the Fashion Olympics and cultural documentation can open global doors for Nigerian talent and heritage.
