MINISTER HANNATU MUSA MUSAWA CHAMPIONS NIGERIA’S CREATIVE ECONOMY AT WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM

At the ongoing World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting, the Honourable Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, held a productive discussion with Daren Tang, Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) today 19th January, 2024.

The focal point of the conversation centered around Nigeria’s Intellectual Property (IP) priorities for 2024 and beyond. Minister Musawa shared her vision, stating, “What we want to do with the Ministry of Arts Culture and Creativity is try to nurture this particular sector.” She outlined intricate plans and initiatives aimed at expanding Nigeria’s GDP and positioning the nation, and indeed black people worldwide, as contributors to the global creative landscape.

Minister Musawa stressed the potential of investing in the creative economy, acknowledging the successes of Nigerian creatives despite government challenges. She expressed optimism about collaborative efforts between the government and creatives, urging global support for Nigeria’s creative endeavors.

Beyond the discussion with WIPO, Minister Musawa actively participated in various sessions at the WEF annual meeting. Notably, she attended “The Year Ahead with Bloomberg,” aligning the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy (FMACCE) with critical issues shaping 2024.

Furthermore, the Minister hosted the Destination 2030 Nigeria Roundtable, themed “Culture and Creativity as a Catalytic Force for Transformative Impact.” This session emphasized the role of African governments in crafting policies and regulatory frameworks for innovation, aligning with WEF priorities for the year – the creation of growth and jobs for a new era.

In a government-to-business session chaired by His Excellency Vice President Kashim Shettima, Minister Musawa engaged with global CEOs, presenting opportunities in Nigeria’s creative industries and fostering investor confidence.

The World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, themed “Rebuilding Trust,” welcomed representatives from over 100 governments. Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa’s multifaceted participation showcased Nigeria’s commitment to the global creative economy, positioning the nation as a key player in the evolving landscape of arts, culture, and innovation. Exciting times lie ahead as Nigeria strives to establish a robust Intellectual Property Framework, unlocking the full potential of its rich culture and creativity for increased revenue and GDP growth.

By Shalom O. Obisesan