Nigeria’s Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to leveraging the country’s traditional institutions to drive cultural tourism, heritage preservation and economic development following a courtesy visit to His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, the Olu of Warri.
During the meeting, Musawa and the revered monarch held discussions on preparations for the 5th Coronation Anniversary of the Olu of Warri and explored strategic areas of collaboration aimed at preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Warri Kingdom.
According to the minister, the discussions underscored the critical role of traditional institutions as custodians of Nigeria’s history, identity and cultural wealth, while highlighting their potential to contribute to national tourism development. “We explored strategic areas of collaboration that will preserve the Kingdom’s invaluable heritage assets while unlocking new opportunities for tourism development, youth empowerment, investment, cultural preservation and global recognition,” Musawa said.
She noted that the partnership will focus on showcasing the Warri Kingdom’s unique cultural legacy, strengthening heritage conservation efforts and positioning the kingdom as a major cultural tourism destination capable of attracting visitors from within Nigeria and across the world. The minister added that promoting the Warri Kingdom’s traditions, festivals and historical assets aligns with the Federal Government’s broader agenda of using culture and tourism as catalysts for economic growth, job creation and community development.
Musawa expressed optimism about working closely with the traditional institution to ensure that the kingdom’s remarkable history and cultural legacy continue to inspire future generations while enhancing Nigeria’s profile as a leading cultural tourism destination. “I look forward to partnering with the Warri Kingdom to ensure that its remarkable history and cultural legacy continue to inspire generations and attract the world to Nigeria,” she said.
