Six Cities, One Vision
Nigeria has kicked off Creative Economy Week 2025, a landmark celebration of arts, culture, and innovation. The initiative is organised in partnership with the British Council and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy (FMACTCE).
The week-long festival, themed “Building Futures through Creativity,” began on September 11 in Abuja. It will run across six cities, Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano, Enugu, and London. The goal is to showcase how creativity can drive economic growth, empower young people, and foster global collaboration.
Expanding Nigeria’s Creative Footprint
This is the second edition of Creative Economy Week, following a successful pilot in 2023. Since its launch, the initiative has inspired similar events in Uganda, Ghana, and Zimbabwe.
Earlier this year, the British Council and FMACTCE signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership aims to strengthen Nigeria’s creative sector, create jobs, and attract international investors.
Highlights of the 2025 Edition
Organisers have curated a wide range of activities to engage stakeholders across different industries.
Key events include:
- Policy Dialogues: High-level discussions with government officials, industry players, and UK partners.
- Workshops and Masterclasses: Covering film, television, music, photography, fashion, and entrepreneurship.
- Craft Sessions: Hands-on learning in batik making, leatherworks, and fibreglass sculpting.
- Creative Markets and Art Showcases: Designed to highlight Nigerian talent and products.
- Lagos Conference: A major forum focusing on women in film, creative technology, investment, and legal frameworks.
Voices from Government and Partners
Speaking at the launch, Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, through the Permanent Secretary, called the event a milestone.
“Creative Economy Week is more than an event,” she said. “It reflects Nigeria’s leadership in arts, culture, and innovation. Guided by the Renewed Hope Agenda, we are empowering youth, amplifying women’s voices, attracting investment, and positioning Nigeria as a global hub for creativity.”
Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, Permanent Secretary, added:
“Nigeria’s creative economy is one of the most dynamic globally. This partnership opens new pathways for talent to thrive and strengthens cultural diplomacy.”
British Council Country Director, Donna McGowan, also shared her perspective:
“For the British Council, youth employability and entrepreneurship are central to achieving sustainable growth. This collaboration ensures the creative economy continues to create jobs and innovation.”
London Showcase to Close the Festival
The Nigerian leg of the programme will end on September 21. A grand showcase will then take place in London on October 11, featuring diaspora voices, investors, and global cultural leaders.
This international platform is expected to create stronger ties between Nigeria’s creative sector and global markets. It will also give Nigerian talent the visibility needed to compete on the world stage.
Building Futures Through Creativity
Creative Economy Week 2025 reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to developing its creative industry as a key driver of growth. By investing in policy frameworks, capacity building, and international collaboration, the country is laying the foundation for a future where creativity becomes a major contributor to its GDP.
