The federal government is planning to establish “Renewed Hope Cultural Villages” across the 36 states to promote Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and boost the creative industry, Abiola Abdulkareem, Special Assistant to Hannatu Musawa, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, has said.

Abdulkareem, in a statement on Monday, said the project is part of the federal government’s “Renewed Hope Cultural Project,” aimed at preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage, promoting tourism, and driving economic growth.

He said the cultural villages will be established in collaboration with state governments, with the aim of transforming historic sites into vibrant creative hubs, fostering economic growth and job creation in the arts and entertainment sectors.

He said the project would focus on restoring and conserving historic sites, monuments, palaces, and artefacts, as well as enhancing cultural education and capacity building in local crafts.

“The project’s success relies on the active participation and collaboration of state governments, local communities, and stakeholders.

“By working together, Nigeria can unlock the transformative power of its arts, culture, tourism, and creative industries for sustainable development and social cohesion.

“The initiative, which aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s economy, creating thousands of jobs and generating revenue through tourism and creative enterprises,” Abdulkareem said.

He explained that the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, is committed to boosting Nigeria’s economy through innovative programmes and policies.

To achieve this, she’s forging partnerships to develop the creative industry, unlocking job opportunities for the country’s youth.

He said the comprehensive approach will not only enhance Nigeria’s creative industry but also contribute to the country’s economic diversification and development.

He revealed that the National Economic Council (NEC) has already approved the project, paving the way for the transformation of Nigeria’s creative industry.