President Tinubu unleashes a creative revolution: New leadership to propel Nigeria’s arts, culture, and creative economy to unprecedented heights

President Tinubu unleashes a creative revolution: Eleven new appointments to ignite the arts, culture, and creative economy

In a groundbreaking development for the arts, culture, and creative economy sector, President Bola Tinubu has announced the appointment of eleven new Chief Executive Officers to lead prominent agencies under the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy. This strategic move is set to redefine the cultural landscape and elevate Nigeria’s creative potential to unprecedented heights.

A new dawn: Meet the visionaries leading the charge

President Tinubu’s approval has given rise to a dynamic leadership team, each handpicked for their expertise and dedication to the enrichment of Nigeria’s cultural heritage. The newly appointed Chief Executive Officers are as follows:

1. Tola Akerele— Director-General, National Theatre
2. Dr. Shaibu Husseini — Director-General, National Films and Censors Board
3. Mr. Obi Asika — Director-General, National Council for Arts and Culture
4. Aisha Adamu Augie — Director-General, Centre for Black and African Arts and Culture
5. Ekpolador-Ebi Koinyan— Chief Conservator, National War Museum
6. Ahmed Sodangi — Director-General, National Gallery of Art
7. Chaliya Shagaya — Director-General, National Institute of Archaeology and Museums Studies
8. Hajiya Khaltume Bulama Gana — Artistic Director, National Troupe of Nigeria
9. Otunba Biodun Ajiboye — Director-General, National Institute for Cultural Orientation
10. Ali Nuhu — Managing Director, Nigerian Film Corporation
11. Ramatu Abonbo Mohammed — Director-General, National Commission for Museums and Monuments

A presidential mandate: Raising the bar for creativity

President Tinubu, in his directive to the appointees, emphasized the need for them to discharge their duties with the highest standards of professionalism, diligence, and patriotism. The President’s vision is clear: to invigorate the creative sector, making it more vibrant, resilient, and globally competitive.

Tola Akerele takes the reins at the National Theatre

At the helm of the National Theatre, Tola Akerele brings a wealth of experience in arts management and a commitment to fostering the growth of theatrical arts in Nigeria. His appointment signals a new era for the National Theatre, promising innovative productions and a redefined cultural experience.

Dr. Shaibu Husseini: Charting a new course for the National Films and Censors Board

Dr. Shaibu Husseini’s leadership at the National Films and Censors Board is anticipated to bring fresh perspectives to the regulation and promotion of the Nigerian film industry. With a background in film studies and cultural critique, Dr. Husseini is poised to steer the board toward international acclaim.

Obi Asika’s vision for the National Council for Arts and Culture

Mr. Obi Asika, a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, takes charge of the National Council for Arts and Culture. His entrepreneurial spirit and passion for promoting Nigerian arts and culture are expected to inject new life into the council’s initiatives and programs.

Aisha Adamu Augie: Championing black and African Arts and Culture

As Director-General of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Culture, Aisha Adamu Augie is set to champion the celebration and preservation of Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage. Her background in cultural studies positions her as a key figure in advancing the center’s mission on both local and global fronts.

The guardians of history: Appointments in Museums and Conservation

Ekpolador-Ebi Koinyan, Ahmed Sodangi, and Chaliya Shagaya have been entrusted with leadership roles in the National War Museum, National Gallery of Art, and the National Institute of Archaeology and Museums Studies, respectively. Their responsibilities involve curating and preserving Nigeria’s rich history and artistic heritage.

Hajiya Khaltume Bulama Gana takes the stage as Artistic Director

Hajiya Khaltume Bulama Gana, appointed as the Artistic Director of the National Troupe of Nigeria, is expected to bring her creative flair and managerial expertise to the forefront. Her role is pivotal in enhancing the troupe’s performances and promoting Nigerian culture through the arts.

Otunba Biodun Ajiboye and Ali Nuhu: Nurturing cultural orientation and the film industry

Otunba Biodun Ajiboye’s leadership at the National Institute for Cultural Orientation and Ali Nuhu’s role as Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation signify a commitment to nurturing cultural awareness and supporting the growth of the Nigerian film industry, respectively.

Ramatu Abonbo Mohammed: Safeguarding national treasures

Heading the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Ramatu Abonbo Mohammed is entrusted with the task of safeguarding and promoting Nigeria’s museums and monuments. Her leadership is expected to contribute to the preservation and appreciation of the nation’s historical artifacts.

The road ahead: A vibrant future for Nigerian creativity

President Tinubu’s strategic appointments reflect a profound commitment to harnessing Nigeria’s creative potential for national development. The appointed leaders are tasked with driving innovation, fostering cultural exchange, and positioning Nigeria as a global hub for creative expression.