21 October 2026
Last update:6 November 2026
The UNESCO Representative to Nigeria, Dr. Isaías Barreto da Rosa, paid a visit to the Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, in Abuja to discuss strengthening cooperation in cultural heritage protection, cultural policy development and the growth of Nigeria’s creative economy.
Dr. Barreto da Rosa commended the Minister’s efforts to advance the country’s cultural and creative industries, highlighting the importance of preserving Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage while creating opportunities for sustainable development. He reaffirmed UNESCO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to secure the inscription of additional sites on the World Heritage List.
Particular attention was given to the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site inscribed in 2005. Located in Osogbo, Osun State, the sacred landscape preserves significant Yoruba spiritual traditions, shrines, sculptures, and natural heritage. Its protection demonstrates the importance of safeguarding cultural sites not only for their historical value but also for the living traditions and communities they represent.
The discussions also highlighted the ongoing review of Nigeria’s National Policy on Culture and the Creative Economy. The review builds on collaboration between the Federal Ministry, UNESCO, and other partners to strengthen the policy environment for cultural development and respond to the evolving needs of the country’s creative industry.
The Minister welcomed UNESCO’s continued cooperation and underscored the importance of advancing the policy review to provide a stronger foundation for protecting cultural assets, supporting creative enterprises and expanding opportunities across the sector.
Nigeria’s cultural and creative industries, including film, music, fashion, visual arts, and the performing arts, offer significant potential for employment, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. Realising this potential requires effective policies, stronger institutions and sustained investment in cultural heritage and creative talent.
Through continued cooperation, UNESCO and the Government of Nigeria aim to protect the country’s cultural legacy, promote cultural diversity, and strengthen culture’s contribution to inclusive and sustainable development.
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This article is related to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.
SDG 1 – End poverty in all its forms everywhere
SDG 17 – Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development
