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Renewed Hope Creative Villages’: FG Unveils Bold Plan to Transform Nigeria’s Historic Sites into Art Hubs

By Achimi Muktar

In a visionary move to boost Nigeria’s creative economy and preserve its rich cultural heritage, the federal government has announced plans to establish creative villages of arts in all 36 states of the country.

The initiative, dubbed “Renewed Hope Creative Villages,” was revealed on Thursday by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu during a press briefing following the 147th National Economic Council meeting, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima in Abuja.

According to Sanwo-Olu, the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy will collaborate with state governments to identify historic locations and transform them into vibrant creative hubs. These hubs will serve as one-stop centers for arts, culture, and innovation, with the potential to generate thousands of jobs and revitalize local economies.

“The idea is for the ministry to work with the states to identify these historic sites and integrate them into creative villages as one-stop shops,” Sanwo-Olu explained. “We believe the creative industry, particularly with our rural historic sites and monuments, holds enormous potential.”

The initiative aims to merge Nigeria’s cultural heritage with economic growth by turning neglected historic sites into thriving centers of creativity. The villages will be tailored to celebrate local arts and crafts while fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, creating opportunities for young Nigerians and strengthening the nation’s creative sector.

In a related update, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, shared financial insights at the meeting. He revealed that states owe the federal government N16.6 billion, while their surplus with the government stands at N363.4 billion. Edun also disclosed figures from various government accounts, including $424 million in the excess crude account, N33.3 billion in the stabilization account, and N23 billion in the natural resources account.

As plans for the creative villages unfold, expectations are high that this initiative will not only preserve Nigeria’s cultural treasures but also provide a robust framework for sustainable development in the creative economy. From historic landmarks to bustling art hubs, Nigeria’s cultural heritage is poised for a transformative leap into the future.