The Federal Government and Ogun State have signed an MoU to boost Nigeria’s creative economy, establish a cultural village, and promote youth empowerment through tourism and heritage
Creative economy advancement has taken a decisive step forward as the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ogun State Government.
The agreement, sealed on Monday by Governor Dapo Abiodun and Minister Hannatu Musawa, is designed to implement strategic cultural and creative projects across the state.
The MoU will see the establishment of a Renewed Hope Cultural Village, the preservation of historical landmarks, capacity-building programmes for young creatives, and the promotion of economic empowerment through culture and tourism.
Governor Abiodun hailed the agreement as a bold stride towards repositioning Ogun State as a leading hub for cultural tourism and creative enterprise.
“Tourism provides employment opportunities by keeping people engaged. Culture, on the other hand, unites our people,” he said.
He emphasised the state’s investment in infrastructure to support tourism and highlighted major events such as Orona Day, Lisabi Day, Remo Day, and the globally acclaimed Ojude Oba Festival as vital assets in the tourism ecosystem.
“Our people are naturally creative but often lack the platform to express their talents,” Abiodun added. “We are witnessing a reawakening of identity and pride in our roots. With increased interest from young people, we want to use tourism as a platform to project our state even further.”
The governor also referenced ongoing work to rehabilitate key heritage sites, including Olumo Rock, Centenary Hall, and Nigeria’s first church and Bible, which he described as national treasures with international appeal.
Minister Musawa, representing the Federal Government, reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s directive to collaborate directly with states to revitalise Nigeria’s diverse cultural landscape.
“Mr President earlier this year announced a plan for the federal government to do a handshake with the states. This MoU is that handshake — one aimed at building a sustainable cultural economy and boosting job creation,” she said.
Under the Renewed Hope Initiative, states will identify their cultural priorities while the Federal Government offers strategic backing. Musawa noted that Ogun’s rich legacy and historical landmarks uniquely position it to lead this new era of cultural revival.
The Renewed Hope Cultural and Creative Project is one of the key pillars of Tinubu’s vision to harness Nigeria’s soft power—through arts, music, heritage, and tourism—as a cornerstone of national development.
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