Hannatu Musawa empowers Nigeria’s tourism vision, partnering with the UAE to strengthen cultural and creative collaboration

Hannatu Musawa empowers Nigeria’s tourism as the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy reaffirmed her commitment to positioning the country as a global hub for the Black community, highlighting the support of the United Arab Emirates in achieving that vision.

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Speaking in Abuja during a meeting with the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed Musabbeh Al Mahyoub Al Shamsi, Musawa described tourism as a source of power and economic independence for nations that invest strategically in culture and creativity.

“It is very important for us now, as a country and as a gateway country to the Black global community, to empower ourselves in a way that gives us a certain level of independence. Tourism now is power,” she said.

The minister commended Dubai’s remarkable transformation into a global tourism destination and expressed optimism about a stronger Nigeria–UAE partnership to advance cultural and tourism growth.

She also extended congratulations to Sheikha, the newly appointed Secretary-General of UN Tourism, on becoming the first female to hold the position. Musawa praised her leadership for promoting inclusivity, women’s empowerment, and the representation of the Global South.

Ambassador Al Shamsi welcomed the minister’s proposals, expressing his country’s readiness to expand collaboration with Nigeria.

“The UAE has become one of the top five industrial countries, so let us find a common interest in culture and tourism to build a stronger relationship,” he said, inviting the ministry to visit Abu Dhabi and Dubai to explore practical areas of cooperation.

The meeting also discussed the forthcoming visit of Sheikha to Nigeria and opportunities for joint initiatives in culture, tourism, and the creative industries.

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Musawa’s remarks reinforced Nigeria’s ambition to transform its creative economy into a powerful instrument for cultural diplomacy, unity, and sustainable development a move many observers describe as a bold step toward rebranding Nigeria’s image on the global stage.