Kehinde Fajobi
The Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, announced on Monday that the Federal Government is creating a Diaspora City to enable Nigerians abroad to invest and reconnect with their heritage.
Speaking in Abuja at the launch of the Motherland 2025 initiative, Musawa explained that the ministry is not only focused on reshaping tourism but also on fostering economic growth, cultural exchange, and community development.
She said, “Our vision extends beyond attracting global visitors; it is about ensuring that the creative and tourism sectors serve as critical tools to improve the lives of the Nigerian people.”
Describing Motherland 2025 as more than just a festival, Musawa explained that it would solidify Nigeria’s position as the “epicentre of global Black and African culture, commerce, and community.”
“This year, we open our doors to the global diaspora, inviting them to immerse themselves in our rich traditions, explore investment opportunities, and witness the remarkable transformation unfolding across our nation,” Musawa said.
The Minister further elaborated that the Motherland Festival would offer a fully immersive experience, featuring state pavilions, exhibitions, and cultural showcases to highlight Nigeria’s innovation, business landscape, and cultural heritage from all 36 states and the FCT.
The festival will also celebrate exceptional members of the diaspora through the Motherland Ambassador Awards.
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Musawa emphasised that Motherland 2025 is not just a one-time event, but “a catalyst for sustained engagement,” aiming to build enduring relationships between the diaspora, investors, and Nigeria’s cultural and economic landscape.
A key part of the project is the development of the Diaspora City, a tourism hub designed for the diaspora to invest, reconnect, and settle in Nigeria. “We are developing Diaspora City — a thriving tourism hub where members of the diaspora can seamlessly invest, reconnect, and put down roots,” she stated.
Chidinma Nwakwo, Managing Director of Discover Motherland Africa, described the unveiling of the initiative as the beginning of a transformative movement that will “reconnect Nigerians in the diaspora with their roots while unlocking investment opportunities and fostering cultural pride.”