The Nigerian Federal Government has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to bolster the nation's cultural and tourism sectors, aiming to enhance its global image and stimulate economic growth. These significant approvals were disclosed by the Minister of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, following a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu in Abuja.

A key initiative is the establishment of a Presidential Task Force on 'Detty December'. This task force will coordinate inter-agency efforts to maximize the potential of Nigeria's vibrant, month-long December celebration, known as 'Detty December'. This festive period, characterized by parties, concerts, weddings, and cultural events, sees a significant influx of diaspora members returning home. Their return injects substantial capital into the economy, benefiting sectors such as hospitality, entertainment, and retail. The task force will involve key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), including aviation, interior, and power, to support states like Lagos in leveraging this festive season to position Nigeria as a global festive destination.

In a move to harness the nation's diverse cultural assets, the FEC also approved the establishment of Tourism and Cultural Economic Zones across all six geopolitical regions and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). These zones are designed to leverage regional strengths and promote Nigeria's rich cultural diversity as a driver of economic prosperity. Musawa explained that this model is inspired by successful international tourism approaches seen in countries like Mexico and Saudi Arabia, where specific destinations are developed and branded as global attractions. The plan includes building on iconic Nigerian destinations such as Obudu, Yankari, and Coco Beach, branding them as standalone tourism hubs in collaboration with state governments to project their unique identities.

Furthermore, the Council endorsed the adoption of 'Naija Season', a national tourism brand developed by the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC). This brand aims to showcase Nigerian festivals throughout the year, promoting a continuous flow of cultural events and attractions.

To strengthen governance and coordination within the sector, the FEC approved the reactivation of the Presidential Council on Tourism Promotion and Investment. This council, to be chaired by President Tinubu himself, will foster inter-ministerial collaboration and project Nigeria's image of peace, unity, and stability to the global community, ensuring a unified approach to tourism development.

Another crucial approval was a cross-sectoral memorandum on Intellectual Property (IP) reforms, jointly developed by the Ministries of Industry, Trade and Investment, Justice, and Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy. This groundbreaking IP framework will empower Nigerian creatives by allowing them to use their intellectual property as collateral to access funding, thereby stimulating innovation and ensuring artists can own, protect, and profit from their ideas. Minister Musawa highlighted this as a