The Federal Government has revealed an ambitious plan to generate over $100 billion and create two million jobs annually from Nigeria’s creative economy. The plan was announced on Wednesday, September 11, by Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, during an investor roundtable. At the event, Musawa unveiled an 8-Point Plan and Roadmap to achieve these objectives, expressing confidence in the plan’s potential to significantly transform the sector if fully implemented.
The 8-Point Plan includes key initiatives such as Nigeria Destination 2023, aimed at unifying efforts to grow the arts, culture, and creative sectors, skills development, fast-tracking policy frameworks, and promoting smart strategic partnerships. Other focal points include setting GDP growth targets, fostering a conducive business environment, and preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
Despite Nigeria’s rich creative potential, Musawa lamented that the sector currently contributes only $5 billion to the economy. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, the creative industry accounted for just 1.2% of Nigeria’s GDP in 2022, lagging behind countries like Egypt (4.3%), South Africa (3.0%), and Morocco (2.7%).
The Minister outlined a strategy to enhance the sector’s global competitiveness through 14 initiatives across four pillars: Technology, Infrastructure and Funding, International Culture Promotion, and Intellectual Property Monetization. Among these are plans to expand digital content tools, improve internet access in underserved areas, and promote Nigeria’s cultural exports. Infrastructure development will involve partnerships to boost investment, while intellectual property initiatives will ensure the enforcement of copyright standards.
Musawa projected that Nigeria’s creative economy could grow by 400% by 2027, positioning the sector for long-term growth. She highlighted several infrastructure projects, including the Digital & Immersive Art Centre, the Abuja Creative City, and a partnership with BigWin Philanthropy to support job creation and capacity building in the industry.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
