The Federal Executive Council has approved the creation of Tourism and Cultural Economic Zones across the six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory. This development represents a major step toward building a stronger, more inclusive tourism economy for Nigeria.
The Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, presented the initiative as part of the Ministry’s commitment to unlocking the country’s cultural and tourism assets in ways that create jobs, attract investment and widen economic opportunities for communities across the nation.
This approval reflects the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to expand the nation’s economic base by strengthening viable non-oil sectors. The Tourism and Cultural Economic Zones are designed to bring new energy into cultural preservation, tourism development, creative enterprise and regional growth.
Each zone will be developed to reflect the unique character of its location. They will feature cultural centres, tourism infrastructure, hospitality spaces, creative industry hubs and visitor attractions that showcase the richness and diversity of Nigerian identity. The zones are expected to support small businesses, expand youth employment and elevate Nigeria’s presence on the global tourism stage.
The initiative also covers collaboration with tourism-rich states such as Abia, Cross River, Delta, Kebbi, Kaduna, Plateau, Kano, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Ogun, Katsina and Osun, which have been identified for their strong cultural assets and high tourism potential. These states are expected to play critical roles in supporting implementation through land allocation, local partnerships and state-level tourism development.
In line with this, the Katsina Tourism and Cultural Economic Zone will spotlight the State’s rich Islamic heritage, its renowned equestrian culture, and its flagship Equestrian City project, which also hosts the International Mounted Games Headquarters positioning Katsina as a premier centre for heritage and equestrian tourism in West Africa.
“In addition, the zones will complement major national tourism projects currently prioritised by the Federal Government, including the revitalisation of the Obudu Cattle Ranch in Cross River; the redevelopment of Yankari Game Reserve in Bauchi; the establishment of the National Museum and Cultural Development District in Abuja; the Abuja Creative City Centre at Idu; and the newly restored Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts (formerly National Theatre) in Lagos.”
Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa explained that the model is inspired by successful tourism destinations around the world where strategic planning, destination development and cultural storytelling have transformed local economies. She noted that the Nigerian approach will place strong emphasis on community participation, sustainability and the protection of cultural heritage.
The Honourable Minister reaffirmed that the initiative will encourage collaboration between government, private sector partners and local communities. The long-term goal is to stimulate steady economic activity, strengthen national pride and create spaces where culture, creativity and commerce can thrive together.
This approval sets the stage for a new era in Nigeria’s tourism development, one built on strategic investments, state-level collaboration and the elevation of the country’s cultural identity. With the Tourism and Cultural Economic Zones now formally endorsed, Nigeria is positioned to unlock new economic pathways and solidify its standing as a leading destination for culture, creativity and experiential tourism.
