Ogun signs MoU with FG to boost tourism, preserve cultural heritage

The federal ministry of art, culture, tourism and creative economy and the Ogun state government and have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to drive the implementation of cultural and creative projects in the state.

The pact, signed on Monday by Dapo Abiodun, governor of Ogun, and Hannatu Musawa, minister of art, culture, tourism and creative economy, aims to establish a renewed hope cultural village, preserve historical sites, build capacity for young creatives, and promote economic empowerment.

Speaking during the event, Abiodun said the MoU is a bold step toward repositioning Ogun as a hub for cultural tourism and creative enterprise.

He described tourism as a lucrative sector with untapped potential, noting that the state’s renowned cultural festivals including Orona Day, Lisabi Day, Remo Day, and the Ojude Oba Festival  serve as rich tourist attractions.

“Tourism provides employment opportunities by keeping people engaged. Culture, on the other hand, unites our people,” the governor said.

“Our people are naturally creative but often lack the platform to express their talents. With the increasing interest of young people in our cultural heritage, we are beginning to witness a reawakening of identity and pride in our roots.

“We want to use tourism as a platform to project our state even further. Countries with similar backgrounds to Nigeria have transitioned from relying on oil to making tourism their top revenue source — and that’s a path we too can take.”

Abiodun noted that his administration had already invested in infrastructure to support the tourism ecosystem and was now working to rehabilitate major tourism sites across the state.

He added that historic landmarks such as Olumo Rock, Centenary Hall, and Nigeria’s first church and Bible, have the potential to draw both local and international tourists to the state.

On her part, Musawa said the ministry is implementing President Bola Tinubu’s directive to work closely with states in reviving and showcasing Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage.

The minister said each state would define its own needs and priorities under the renewed hope initiative, while the federal government would provide the necessary support.

She added that Ogun state, known for its iconic landmarks and cultural legacies, is uniquely positioned to lead this cultural revival.

“Mr. President earlier this year announced a plan for the federal government to do a handshake with the states. This MoU is that handshake — one aimed at building a sustainable cultural economy and boosting job creation,” she said.

“When we do the handshake and MoU, the states will populate the agreement with their unique requests — whether it’s upgrading heritage sites, investing in monuments, or expanding the creative industry.”

The renewed hope cultural and creative project is one of the initiatives under the Tinubu-led administration to harness Nigeria’s soft power including arts, music, tourism and traditional heritage for national development.