…….Abiodun, Musawa Seal Agreement to Promote Tourism, Heritage, and Economic Growth

The Ogun State Government and the Federal Government of Nigeria have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the implementation of the Renewed Hope Cultural and Creative Projects, a bold initiative aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s cultural identity and boosting the tourism economy.

The MoU, which was signed by Gov Dapo Abiodun on behalf of Ogun State and Hon. Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, on behalf of the Federal Government, includes provisions for the establishment of a Renewed Hope Cultural Village, preservation and rehabilitation of key heritage sites, capacity building, and economic empowerment of creative talents.

Speaking during the ceremony, Gov Abiodun described tourism as a powerful driver of economic activity and social cohesion. He expressed readiness to partner with the federal government to unlock the sector’s full potential.

“Tourism provides employment opportunities by keeping people busy. Culture, on the other hand, unites our people,” the governor said. “Our people are endowed with creativity but do not have the platform to showcase their talents. Presenting our culture to the youths has attracted their attention, and they have started connecting back to their roots.”

Abiodun highlighted Ogun State’s rich cultural heritage and iconic tourist destinations, including the famous Ojude Oba Festival, Orona Day, Lisabi Day, Remo Day, Olumo Rock, Centenary Hall, and the site of Nigeria’s first church and first Bible. He stated that his administration has invested significantly in infrastructure and is now prioritizing the rehabilitation of tourist attractions.

“We want to use tourism as a platform to project our state even further. Countries with similar histories as Nigeria have diversified from oil to tourism as a major source of revenue. Nigeria, with its rich cultural diversity, can do the same,” he added.

The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, described the MoU as part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which calls for strategic partnerships between the federal and state governments to drive cultural preservation, job creation, and economic growth.

“Mr. President earlier in the year announced a project for the federal government to do a handshake with state governments to build sustainable futures and expand domestic tourism. Every state has its uniqueness, and we want the states to drive this conversation,” Musawa said.

She explained that the federal government’s offer of partnership through the Renewed Hope Cultural and Creative Project is an opportunity for states to harness their peculiar cultural assets, heritage sites, and creative industries to shape a new narrative for Nigeria.

“Ogun State is full of culture, beautiful landscapes, and outstanding personalities. With the takeoff of this project, the state is about to experience something extremely special.”

The Renewed Hope Cultural and Creative Projects are expected to serve as a model for similar agreements across Nigeria, as the country moves to reposition its cultural sector as a pillar of sustainable development.