Minister Musawa Vows To Secure Better Budget For Art, Culture, Creative Economy
Minister Hannatu Musawa has vowed to secure a better budget for the Art, Culture, and Creative Economy ministry.
This announcement came during a one-day management retreat in Abuja, where she addressed top officials and stakeholders.
Minister Musawa emphasized the need for a substantial budget increase. She stated, “Our ministry has been operating on a paltry budget. This must change to reflect our responsibilities and expectations.”
Her commitment to securing a better budget for art, culture, and the creative economy is seen as a significant step towards revitalizing these sectors.
The minister highlighted the importance of culture and creativity in Nigeria’s development. She noted that every village in Nigeria has the potential to benefit from cultural and creative activities.
“Culture is the new oil,” she declared, stressing that unlike oil, culture and creativity are accessible to all Nigerians.
Minister Musawa also revealed efforts to attract international investments. She announced that the ministry had secured $200 million from Afreximbank to boost the tourism industry.
This funding is expected to enhance infrastructure and create more opportunities within the creative economy.
During her recent visit to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) in New York, Minister Musawa engaged with officials from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar.
These discussions focused on securing investments for Nigeria’s cultural and creative sectors. She expressed optimism that these efforts would yield significant results.
Despite the promising developments, Minister Musawa acknowledged the challenges ahead. She urged the ministry’s top echelon to add value to ongoing efforts and to see the vision ahead. “We must work together to grow this industry,” she said.
The minister also addressed the misconceptions about the arts and culture sector. She criticized the tendency to reduce the sector to mere entertainment.
“Art and culture are much more than dancing. They are vital resources for our nation’s growth,” she asserted.
Minister Musawa’s vow to secure a better budget for art, culture, and the creative economy has been met with widespread support.
Stakeholders believe that with adequate funding, the sector can significantly contribute to Nigeria’s economy.
The minister’s proactive approach and international engagements are expected to bring about the much-needed transformation.
