Nigeria’s National Economic Council (NEC) has approved the establishment of “Renewed Hope Creative Villages,” a cultural initiative aimed at revitalizing the country’s heritage sites and boosting the creative economy. The initiative was announced by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, following the NEC meeting chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Key Highlights:
- Proposal and Purpose:
- The initiative was proposed by the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa.
- It focuses on adopting historic sites and transforming them into hubs for creative activities, showcasing Nigeria’s cultural heritage and providing one-stop creative centers.
- Benefits:
- Cultural Preservation: Protect and preserve Nigeria’s historic monuments and heritage sites.
- Economic Impact: Generate jobs, enhance revenue for local communities, and promote tourism.
- Global Image: Elevate Nigeria’s cultural prominence on the global stage.
- Funding and Collaboration:
- The council approved increased budgetary support for the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy.
- Collaboration between federal and sub-national governments is encouraged to identify and develop these heritage sites into thriving creative villages.
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the economic potential of the creative arts sector, noting that this initiative aligns with the broader vision of economic diversification and cultural revitalization under Nigeria’s Renewed Hope agenda.