Nigeria wants to build a creative city in its capital city
The 30-hectare Abuja Creative City, a partnership between FMACTCE and The Creative Park—led by Bayo Omoboriowo—is designed to establish Nigeria as a global hub for creativity and media
Earlier this month, the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy (FMACTCE), led by Hon. Hannatu Musa Musawa, announced it is partnering with The Creative Park, founded by Bayo Omoboriowo, the Personal Photographer to Former President of Nigeria Muhammadu Buhari, to develop a 30-hectare Creative City in Abuja, the nation's capital.
According to the announcement, the ‘groundbreaking initiative’ is designed to establish Nigeria as a global hub for creativity and media. “Aligned with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope vision of a fully diversified, private sector-driven economy, the Abuja Creative City will drive economic diversification and sustainable growth through media, technology, culture, and innovation,” the announcement noted.
“This initiative will transform the role of creativity in economic development by providing a dynamic platform that connects designers, artists, entrepreneurs, and technology innovators.”
Read Also: 5 African Film Festivals you should know
The Abuja Creative City, which is inspired by global creative hubs like NEOM, Dubai Media City, and Techhub London, Omoboriowo notes, is about building an ecosystem where creatives can thrive, where ideas turn into industries, and where culture becomes a major driver of economic growth. “This initiative is not just about infrastructure; it’s about people,” Omoboriowo shared.
“I am truly encouraged to see government bodies, particularly the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, actively championing the growth of Nigeria’s creative industry. Their commitment to ensuring that creativity is not just celebrated but also structured as a vehicle for wealth creation and empowerment is a significant milestone.”
The initiative, with a goal to build a creative ecosystem, provides a clear pathway for creatives, taking them from learning to scaling and exporting. “[The initiative] focuses on financial sustainability by ensuring that creatives transition from skill acquisition to industry-level production,” FMACTCE noted.
According to the agreement, the Abuja Creative City will include a Residency Hub and a Creative lodge, offering spaces dedicated to artistic development and professional networking. The Creative Park notes that it will prioritize environmental responsibility, integrating sustainable practices across spaces, interactions, production, and cultural preservation efforts. “By adopting eco-conscious strategies, the initiatives ensure that creative development aligns with global sustainability standards,” it noted.
