Ministry Vows 2 Million Jobs for Qualified Nigerians in Creative Sectors

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has announced plans for her ministry to facilitate the generation of two million jobs for eligible Nigerians.

Musawa, who was speaking at the management at the retreat of the ministry on Wednesday in Abuja, said the event is to assess the progress made since its creation by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2023 and also to identify challenges facing the ministry and develop innovative strategies that will propel it (the ministry) and its agencies forward.

The minister said it is time for Nigeria to diversify from its dependence on oil by shifting focus on the creative industry bringing talented Nigerians to the mainstream and adding value to the economy.

“We are trying to diversify from oil through the creative industry. It is possible if we can get the support of those who know the creative industry very well and care about what the ministry is doing. We are looking at how to use the talents Nigerians have to bring value to the country.

“Job creation is key and we want to create and contribute 2 million jobs by 2027. We want to increase the GDP of Nigeria by 100 billion dollars by 2030. It is doable. We are going to work round the clock to ensure we are able to do that.

“Reflecting on the mandate of our Ministry, we play a critical role in shaping the creative and cultural landscape of our nation while promoting and preserving Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, our Ministry is set to be a beacon of creativity, innovation, and inclusivity.

“Since the establishment of the Ministry by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on 21st August 2023, we have witnessed remarkable achievements and milestones, thanks to the dedication and passion of our predecessors and key stakeholders within the sector.

“From the establishment of cultural institutions to the implementation of landmark policies, projects and programmes, our Ministry has been and will continue to be at the forefront of driving positive change and transformation. We have embraced innovation and adaptation, recognizing the dynamic nature of our Cultural Industries. We have celebrated our diversity and nurtured our talents, paving the way for vibrant and thriving Art, Culture and Creative Sectors.

“It is essential that we align our efforts with the Presidential priorities set forth by the President at the Cabinet Retreat for Ministers, Presidential Aides, Permanent Secretaries and Top Government Functionaries held in November 2023.

“As we deliberate during this Retreat, it is essential that we remain focused on our Ministerial Deliverables and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) derived from the Performance Bond signed by myself and the Permanent Secretary with Mr President. These deliverables and KPIs serve as our roadmap, guiding our efforts and measuring our progress.

They provide us with a clear direction and ensure that we are accountable to ourselves, our Stakeholders and the Nigerian people.

In her remarks, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination and Head of the Central Delivery Coordination Unit (CDCU), Hadiza Bala Usman, represented by Dr Sanusi Ohiare, described the creative industry as a fountain of opportunities, a wellspring of economic growth and a catalyst for societal transformation that should be supported by everyone.

“I am happy that the ministry is off this all-important task as indicated in this retreat of the capable hands who will initiate and drive the policies, programs and projects that will enable the administration and Nigeria to achieve the set targets. The ladies and gentlemen here are the ones upon which we can depend to weave a tapestry of policies and programmes around our country’s cultural richness, thereby fostering economic vibrancy and sustainable development that will resonate across generations.

“The creative industry is not just a sector; it is a way of life, a celebration of our diversity, and a testament to our resilience as a people. I am confident that we can join hands, hearts, and minds and forge a path towards a future where creativity knows no bounds, where dreams become reality, and where our nation shines as a beacon of artistic excellence and economic prosperity.”