The Federal Government is taking concrete steps to implement intellectual property protections aimed at safeguarding the interests of Nigeria’s creative sector, according to the Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa.
Speaking at a high-level panel session during the 68th CAF UN Tourism Commission for Africa, held under the theme “Boosting Social Impact and Education in Tourism Through Innovation, AI, and Creative Industries in Africa,” Musawa said the ministry has finalized new policies addressing intellectual property rights, the creative economy, and cultural development.
According to a statement shared with PUNCH Online on Friday, Musawa explained that the new policies are part of broader efforts by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to drive economic growth, create jobs, and position Nigeria as a leading global tourism destination.
“We are introducing policies that will offer strong, detailed protection for intellectual property to attract investment and protect creators,” she said. “Two major policies have already been completed and are ready to be presented to the National Executive Council.”
Musawa also highlighted the ministry’s broader strategy, which includes an eight point agenda and 14 distinct initiatives. Central to this strategy is the “Destination 2030: Nigeria Everywhere” campaign, which she said will leverage Nigeria’s global appeal in music, film, fashion, and art to rebrand the country and draw international attention and investment.
She emphasized the role of “soft power” in driving tourism and economic expansion, noting that showcasing Nigerian talent and creativity is essential not only for cultural diplomacy but also for commercial opportunities.
“We want to use our cultural content not just to tell our story to the world, but to bring people in, to generate interest and investment,” she said.
Also present at the session, Seychelles Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Ambassador Louis Sylvestre Radegonde, shared plans by his government to boost community tourism through initiatives like cooking, dance, and art programs to draw visitors into local villages.
The event brought together policymakers and industry experts across Africa, discussing innovation and policy support needed to grow tourism and creative sectors across the continent.
