The Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has revealed ambitious plans to elevate Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to a staggering $100 billion by the year 2030.
Speaking at the ‘A Creative Industry Intervention’ Roundtable in Abuja, Mr Musawa emphasized the government’s commitment to driving economic growth through the arts and creative sectors. The event, supported by the Office of the Vice President, Trembly, Providus Bank, and Leadway Assurance Plc, brought together key stakeholders and industry experts to deliberate on the way forward.
Under her leadership, the minister highlighted the tireless efforts of her team in implementing a range of initiatives aimed at positioning Nigeria as a global cultural and entertainment powerhouse. “We are not merely intervening in the creative sector; we are on a path of transformative and accelerated growth in every aspect of our creative economy,” she stated.
She further explained, “The creative industries are the lifeblood of the new economy, propelling economic growth, driving change, and creating employment opportunities. We are uniquely positioned with abundant human capital and limitless possibilities.”
Mr Musawa stressed the ministry’s objective to contribute ten per cent to the country’s GDP, ultimately expanding the sectorial GDP to an impressive $100 billion by 2030.
Moreover, she outlined the ministry’s vision, built upon five key pillars, including Policy, Legislative, Regulatory and Intellectual Property Reforms, Cultural and Economy plans, Private Sector Engagement, and ‘Destination 2030, Nigeria Everywhere’, aimed at establishing Nigeria as the leading global hub for arts, culture and creativity.
Commenting on the vision, Musawa emphasized, “Destination 2030, Nigeria Everywhere will promote our culture and showcase our creators to the world, establishing Nigeria as the leading global hub for arts, culture and creativity. Nigeria’s cultural influence should transcend borders, and we are committed to making it a reality.”
She urged stakeholders to recognize their indispensable role in the transformative journey, expressing confidence that their collective efforts would not only position Nigeria as the world’s creative capital but also enrich the lives of the people and inspire future generations.
Commenting on the roadmap outlined by Minister Musawa, the Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Digital Creative Economy, Mr Fegho Umunubo, expressed hope of attaining a one billion dollar economy by 2030, emphasizing the growing significance of the creative economy and its potential to redefine Nigeria’s global image.
Similarly, the Chief Executive Officer of Trembly, Lawrence Ogungbe, lauded Nigeria’s vibrant creative industry, asserting that the world is yet to fully embrace the nation’s creative wealth.
Meanwhile, the Managing Director of Providus Bank, Walter Akpani, proposed an even loftier target, suggesting that the $100 billion mark should be increased to $200 billion.
The event witnessed the presence of dignitaries, including the Minister of Labour and Productivity, Simon Lalong, Minister of Budget and National Planning, Atiku Bagudu, officials from the office of the Vice President, industry players, and other stakeholders from the arts and culture realm. (NAN)
