FG pledges investment in creative economy, tourism to drive Africa’s development

The Federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging the creative economy and tourism sector as key drivers of Africa’s economic growth and development.

Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, stated this during the maiden edition of the Africa Tourism and Creative Economy Expo held in Abuja.

Musawa emphasised the continent’s vast cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and artistic talent as unique comparative advantages in the global market.

The Minister, represented by Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, permanent secretary of the ministry, noted that these assets, when strategically aligned with digital innovation and youth engagement, could unlock unprecedented trade and investment opportunities for Africa.

“Our vibrant youth population and growing digital economy, combined with Africa’s rich cultural and tourism endowments, provide the continent with a unique competitive edge. To optimize these resources, we must move beyond potential to practical implementation through innovation, capacity building, access to finance, and cross-sector collaboration,” Musawa said.

The Minister also reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting Africa-wide trade in creative services, aligned with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.

“The creative economy is not just an industry; it is a catalyst for innovation, job creation, and continental identity. We call on governments, private investors, development partners, and creative entrepreneurs to collaborate and build a robust ecosystem where creativity thrives and tourism flourishes,” she added.

The two-day Expo provides a forum for discussions, exhibitions, and networking, and is part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to position itself and the continent as a global hub for cultural tourism and creative excellence.

Read also: Nigeria to reposition tourism sector with Destination 2030 initiative – Musawa

In her remarks, Pascaline Gerengbo Yakivu, Ambassador of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, commended Nigeria for organising the Expo and highlighted the importance of cultural promotion in driving economic growth.

She noted that cultural initiatives allow nations to showcase their artistic and natural assets, attract public and private investment, and strengthen regional partnerships.

“Cultures transcend barriers and bring people closer together. In the D.R. Congo, under the patronage of President Felix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, we have organized tourism fairs to attract investors and showcase our cultural and natural attractions, including music, cuisine, national parks, rare species like bonobos and okapi, the Congo River, and the Inga Dam.

“These efforts help preserve our culture while contributing to sustainable economic development and regional peace,” Yakivu said.