Nigeria and the United Kingdom have launched a new cultural and creative economy partnership, highlighted by the announcement of the UK–Nigeria Season of Culture 2028.

The initiative marks a major step in bilateral collaboration, aimed at creating new opportunities for creatives in both countries while strengthening economic and cultural ties.

The partnership is expected to drive investment, support co-production initiatives, and open up global distribution channels for creative content. At its centre is the Season of Culture 2028, a flagship programme that will showcase talents in music, film, fashion, visual arts, and education.

The event is designed to build sustainable institutional partnerships and expand access to international markets for creatives from both nations.

In preparation for the programme, both countries will embark on two years of joint activities, including cultural exchanges, coordinated events, and commercial engagements aimed at deepening collaboration.

The initiative was announced during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to the United Kingdom, reflecting a shared commitment to positioning the creative industry as a key driver of economic growth, job creation, and global cultural exchange.

Nigeria’s Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, said the country’s creative sector is well-positioned to connect talent with markets while blending culture with commerce.

She noted that the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) would play a critical role in translating the partnership into tangible opportunities for creatives and entrepreneurs, working alongside the British Council and private sector stakeholders.

On his part, the United Kingdom’s Minister for Arts, Ian Murray, highlighted the power of culture to unite people and unlock new opportunities.

“With the UK hosting the largest Nigerian diaspora in Europe, we are uniquely positioned to maximise these opportunities. Many of our most talented individuals share deep cultural ties between Nigeria and Britain, and I look forward to strengthening these connections through the 2028 Season of Culture,” he said.

Also speaking, the Country Director of the British Council in Nigeria, Donna McGowan, described cultural seasons as effective platforms for driving growth in the creative industries and building long-term partnerships.

“The British Council is honoured to work with Nigeria’s Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy on this landmark initiative. The Season of Culture will deepen creative and educational ties, support talent development, and create new pathways for collaboration and innovation,” she said.

Meanwhile, the UK Trade Envoy to Nigeria and Co-Chair of the UK–Nigeria Creative Economy Working Group, Florence Eshalomi, said the partnership would unlock investment opportunities and boost job creation.

“As a British-Nigerian, I have seen firsthand the richness of our shared cultures.

This partnership will deliver significant benefits by strengthening our creative sectors and expanding opportunities for talent,” she said (The Guardian)

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