In a significant move to revive Nigeria’s cultural heritage and boost the creative economy, the Federal Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ogun State Government to implement the Renewed Hope Cultural and Creative Projects.
The agreement, signed during a ceremony in Abeokuta on Sunday, brings together the Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy and the Ogun State Government in a strategic partnership. Key figures in attendance included Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun; the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa; Ogun State Chief of Staff Dr. Oluwatoyin Taiwo; SSG Tokunbo Talabi; and Hon. Abiola Abdulkareem, Special Assistant to the Minister on Sub-National Development and Partnership.
Under the MoU, both parties will collaborate on initiatives such as the establishment of a Renewed Hope Cultural Village, restoration of tourism and heritage sites, skill-building programs for local creatives, and broader economic empowerment for artisans and stakeholders in the sector.
Governor Abiodun, who signed on behalf of Ogun State, described the initiative as a powerful engine for development.
“Tourism and culture are critical to economic diversification. They create jobs, drive investment, and strengthen national unity. Ogun State is rich in cultural history and talent, and we are excited to work with the Federal Government to unlock this potential,” he said.
He highlighted cultural landmarks and festivals in the state—including the Ojude Oba Festival, Orona Day, Lisabi Day, Remo Day, Olumo Rock, Centenary Hall, and Nigeria’s first church and Bible—as valuable national assets capable of attracting global interest.
Signing on behalf of the Federal Government, Minister Hannatu Musawa described the partnership as a direct response to President Bola Tinubu’s mandate to reposition Nigeria’s cultural assets for global recognition and job creation.
“The Renewed Hope initiative is about creating a handshake between the Federal Government and the states. Each state has its own cultural identity. Our goal is to empower them to showcase it, drive economic impact, and tell Nigeria’s story to the world,” Musawa explained.
She emphasized that the Federal Government will provide technical support, policy backing, and funding coordination to help states revive monuments, expand local creative industries, and boost domestic tourism.
Hon. Abiola Abdulkareem noted that the collaboration would serve as a model for nationwide adoption and development.
“Ogun State has taken the lead. This partnership will not only uplift rural communities but will also help preserve our cultural legacies for future generations,” he said.
