The Federal Government is in the final stages of reviewing Nigeria’s National Policy on Culture, marking the first comprehensive revision in 37 years.
Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, announced the development in a statement on Friday in Abuja, highlighting the collaborative effort between the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).
“The document was last reviewed in 1988 and has remained in draft form for over 37 years despite its significance in shaping Nigeria’s cultural and creative industries,” Musawa stated.
She explained that a Cultural Policy Drafting Committee, comprising over 100 members, was inaugurated in July 2024. The committee was tasked with researching, developing, and refining the policy framework. The virtual drafting process was completed in December 2024, necessitating a final physical review to consolidate the document.
“The last stage involves Stakeholders Engagement and Validation before submission to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approval,” she added.
Musawa emphasized that the review aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, ensuring that Nigeria’s cultural framework meets global standards and reflects the evolving creative economy.
“The national policy on culture serves as a legal framework guiding the preservation, promotion, and development of Nigeria’s cultural heritage. This review ensures that the policy reflects contemporary trends, particularly the shift from a creative industry to a creative economy,” she noted.
The minister further credited the partnership with NESG and UNESCO for enhancing the review process. Through a 2024 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), NESG provided research, technical support, and stakeholder engagement strategies to align the policy with national and international standards.
“UNESCO’s technical assistance has been instrumental in training Ministry staff and NESG representatives, facilitating workshops, and providing expert guidance to ensure the revised policy supports the growth of the creative economy while preserving cultural heritage,” she added.
NESG facilitator Ikenna Nwosu, who participated in the drafting process, stressed the long-overdue nature of the review.
“For 37 years, this policy remained unchanged despite the rapid transformation of the cultural and creative sectors. Ideally, such policies should be reviewed every five to ten years. What we are witnessing today is a necessary intervention,” Nwosu said.
He commended the minister’s leadership, stating, “The industry has advanced beyond governance, and this review is a crucial step in ensuring policies align with the sector’s economic potential. It will reposition our cultural sector as a key contributor to Nigeria’s GDP.”
