Nigeria, EU launch €20m initiative to drive cultural, creative growth

Nigeria and the European Union have launched a €20 million initiative aimed at boosting partnerships between museums and supporting film festivals and the digital creative industry.

The announcement was made on Thursday in Abuja during a courtesy visit by an EU delegation led by Ambassador Gautier Mignot to Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa.

The initiative is aimed at harnessing Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage as a tool for economic growth, job creation, and national cohesion.

Speaking during the meeting, Musawa revealed plans for a “Unity Song” featuring top Nigerian artists, aimed at promoting national unity and addressing security challenges through music. “Culture is central to civilization and growth,” the Minister said. “We must harness our rich heritage to drive economic growth, create jobs, and foster unity.”

The minister also unveiled plans for an upcoming Creative Economy Summit, which will bring together stakeholders to align priorities, streamline activities, and avoid duplication of efforts. The summit will focus on encouraging strategic collaboration, investment, and innovation across Nigeria’s creative landscape.

Musawa further highlighted the importance of data-driven approaches to policy development in the cultural sector. She stressed that data mapping will guide effective interventions, ensuring resources are directed toward areas with the greatest impact.

Ambassador Mignot reiterated the EU’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Nigeria in culture and the creative economy. He noted that cultural diplomacy remains a strong pillar of EU engagement with Africa, and that Nigeria’s vibrant creative scene offers vast potential for mutual benefit.

Both parties pledged to align the initiative with international best practices while tailoring it to Nigeria’s unique cultural context.