ABUJA – The Federal Government is set to launch the “Renewed Hope Cultural Project,” a nationwide initiative designed to preserve Nigeria’s cultural heritage, promote tourism, and stimulate economic growth.
The project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, and aims to safeguard the country’s rich cultural diversity while creating economic opportunities through the establishment of Renewed Hope Cultural Villages across the nation.
Speaking to journalists recently in Ilorin on phone chat, Barr. Abiola Abdulkareem Jagunlabi, Special Assistant to the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy— and also the project’s coordinator— outlined the initiative’s objectives.
He highlighted plans to restore and conserve historic sites, monuments, palaces, and artifacts while enhancing cultural education and capacity-building in local crafts.
Jagunlabi emphasised that the initiative seeks to empower rural communities by providing vocational training, equipping local artisans with entrepreneurial skills, and offering alternative career pathways for Nigerian youth.
“The implementation strategy includes investing in historical sites, monuments, and natural attractions, empowering women and youth in rural areas through vocational skills training, and organising vibrant cultural festivals and tourism events to celebrate Nigeria’s diverse cultures,” he stated.
He further stressed that the project’s success depends on collaboration with state governments, local communities, and other stakeholders.
“By working together, Nigeria can harness the transformative power of its arts, culture, tourism, and creative industries for sustainable development and social cohesion,” Jagunlabi added.
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hajia Hannatu Musa Musawa, is spearheading efforts to drive economic growth through innovative programs and policies.
She is actively forging partnerships to develop the creative industry, unlocking employment opportunities for Nigerian youth.
Nigeria’s arts and culture sector has immense potential to boost tourism and economic growth.
According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), Nigeria’s tourism sector contributed approximately $7.2 billion (about 2.8% of GDP) in 2019.
With strategic investment in cultural tourism, this figure could significantly increase, driving more job creation and foreign exchange earnings.
Countries with strong cultural tourism industries, such as France and Italy, generate billions annually from their heritage sites and festivals.
By leveraging its diverse cultural assets—including over 250 ethnic groups, traditional festivals, and historical landmarks—Nigeria can attract more international tourists and increase local tourism revenues.
Data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) also indicate that the creative industry currently employs over 4.2 million Nigerians, with potential to expand further if properly supported.
Jagunlabi also revealed that the National Economic Council (NEC) has given its full backing to the project, recognizing the crucial role of state governments in ensuring its success.
