By Izunna Okafor, Awka
In what has been described as a landmark step toward repositioning Nigeria’s creative and cultural sectors, the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Anambra State Government have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster collaboration and sustainable growth in the nation’s creative economy.
The historic agreement, which was signed at the newly inaugurated Anambra State Government House, The Light House, Awka, marks a major milestone in the partnership between both tiers of government to drive cultural preservation, innovation, and creative industry expansion.
The MoU was officially signed by the Honourable Minister for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, on behalf of the Federal Government, and the Anambra State Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Mr. Donatus Nduka Onyenji, on behalf of the State Government.
According to the agreement, the partnership establishes a comprehensive framework for cooperation between the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Cultural Project and the Soludo-led administration’s Destination Anambra Agenda. Both initiatives, it was gathered, are geared toward harnessing the immense potential of arts, culture, and tourism to boost economic development, empower creative talents, and promote Nigeria’s rich heritage both locally and globally.
Speaking shortly after the signing, Commissioner Onyenji described the event as “a new dawn for the creative and cultural industries in Anambra and Nigeria at large.” He explained that the partnership will focus on key areas such as the preservation of cultural heritage, restoration of historic sites, palaces, and monuments, capacity building for young creatives, and the establishment of the Renewed Hope Creative and Cultural Village in Anambra State.
He noted that the collaboration will serve as a catalyst for innovation, employment, and economic growth, while also strengthening Anambra’s position as the emerging hub of arts and culture in Nigeria.
“This partnership will create opportunities for our talented youths, empower local artisans, and showcase Anambra as a thriving destination for creative investment,” Onyenji stated.
Expressing gratitude to the Honourable Minister, Hannatu Musawa, the Commissioner commended her visionary leadership and commitment to the advancement of the creative economy in Nigeria, describing her as a resourceful and humble leader who recognizes the value of strategic partnerships in driving national development.
He revealed that the Minister was deeply impressed by the numerous strides of the Soludo administration in the areas of arts, culture, entertainment, and tourism, which he said have clearly demonstrated Anambra’s readiness for such a collaborative venture.
“As Mr. Commissioner, I can assure Ndi Anambra that in the coming weeks and months, the outcomes of this unprecedented strategic approach will begin to manifest. We are fully prepared to actualize this vision and ensure that the benefits of this partnership touch every creative hand in the State,” Onyenji affirmed.
He further praised Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, for his foresight and dedication to transforming Anambra into a model state for innovation, culture, and sustainable development.
Earlier speaking, the Honourable Minister for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, lauded Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his visionary efforts in promoting cultural preservation and creative industry growth in the state. She emphasized that the Federal Government views Anambra as a key partner in advancing the Renewed Hope Cultural Project, particularly because of its vibrant talent base, cultural history, and thriving entertainment ecosystem.
Musawa explained that the partnership reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to empowering creative minds and using culture as a tool for national rebirth, youth empowerment, and sustainable economic diversification. She said the Renewed Hope Cultural Project is not just about entertainment or tourism but about creating a solid economic framework that will support Nigerian creatives to thrive globally.
The Minister further expressed confidence that Anambra would serve as a model state for other regions, noting that the Federal Government is ready to provide technical, infrastructural, and policy support to ensure the project’s success. She also commended Commissioner Onyenji and his team for their enthusiasm and readiness to collaborate closely with the Ministry to deliver tangible results in the shortest possible time.
This partnership, it was gathered, represents a bold commitment to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, while aligning seamlessly with Governor Soludo’s Solution Government Vision of making Anambra the creative heartbeat of Nigeria.
Beyond its cultural and artistic significance, the MoU is also expected to boost tourism, attract investors, and expand the state’s economic base through strategic utilization of its cultural assets.
The event, which also drew presence and commendation of some top government functionaries, including the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Ernest Ezeajughi; and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Entertainment, Leisure and Tourism, Hon. Bob-Manuel Udokwu, was hailed as a new era of intergovernmental collaboration to reposition the South-East as a cultural powerhouse and a major player in Nigeria’s creative economy.
