President Tinubu Positions Nigeria’s Creative Economy as Strategic Engine for Global Growth at London Exhibition

President Bola Tinubu highlights Nigeria’s creative sector as a key economic driver and global soft power during his London visit to the Tate Modern.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 20, 2026, 3:39 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Peoples Gazette

The Renaissance of Nigerian Modernism in London

During the concluding engagements of his official visit to the United Kingdom, President Bola Tinubu highlighted the transformative power of the arts at the Nigerian Modernism exhibition. Addressing an international audience at the Tate Modern, the President characterized the showcase as a "testament to a revolution" that began in the mid-20th century. According to the President, this generation of artists successfully reclaimed their national identity from colonial narratives, blending traditional indigenous rhythms with sophisticated global techniques to create a unique cultural vocabulary that resonates on the world stage.

Creative Industries as Pillars of National Strategy

The federal government’s "Renewed Hope" agenda has formally integrated the creative sector—encompassing art, music, literature, and film—into Nigeria’s broader economic growth strategy. President Tinubu emphasized that these industries are no longer merely cultural assets but are now among the nation's most significant exports. By framing creativity as a strategic driver, the administration seeks to leverage Nigeria's cultural influence to foster international engagement and enhance the country’s standing in an increasingly interconnected global marketplace.

Call for Integrated Funding and Market Structures

A central theme of the President’s address was the urgent need for a cohesive ecosystem of investment involving the government, private sector, and international stakeholders. President Tinubu argued that to unlock the full potential of Nigerian creatives, there must be a concerted effort to expand access to sustainable funding and professionalize market structures. This call to action aims to provide artists with the infrastructure necessary to achieve greater global visibility and ensure that the economic benefits of their work are fully realized within the Nigerian economy.