Figures cited by Leadership from the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, indicate that the creative sector is being prioritized as a primary engine for Nigeria’s economic growth in 2026. Following a strategic meeting with the leadership of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), the government pledged to create a more enabling environment for filmmakers, musicians, and digital creators. The sector is expected to play a critical role in the government’s plan to bring 10 million Nigerians into productive economic activity.
The Minister emphasized that the “orange economy” has the potential to generate massive foreign exchange and create jobs for the youth at a faster rate than traditional manufacturing. Plans are underway to provide better copyright protection and access to low-interest loans for creative projects. This shift reflects a broader policy move to diversify the economy away from oil and leverage Nigeria’s cultural influence globally.
The story was also reported by The Punch and ThisDay. The Punch noted that “TAMPAN has requested for a dedicated creative industry bank,” while ThisDay highlighted that “creative exports could account for 5% of Nigeria’s GDP by 2027.”
Echotitbits take:
The government is finally putting its money where its mouth is regarding Nollywood and the music industry. By involving the Ministry of Interior, they are also likely looking at “visa facilitation” for international crews coming to film in Nigeria. Watch for the rollout of the “Creative Industry Fund” in the Q2 budget.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/creative-sector-key-to-growth-tunji-ojo/ , January 31, 2026
Photo credit: The Punch
