Abuja is set to shine brighter as a cultural and sporting powerhouse with the launch of a new Arts, Culture, Creative, Tourism, and Sports Innovation Hub at Moshood Abiola National Stadium. The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, led by Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa, inked a deal with the National Sports Commission (NSC) on Thursday to make it happen.
Musawa called the project a “big win” for Nigeria, tying it to President Tinubu’s plan to create jobs and tackle insecurity through culture and sports. NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko promised to transform the stadium into a modern hub showcasing Nigeria’s vibrant heritage.
The hub will pack a punch with a National Museum of Arts and Culture, an Entertainment Arena, a Youth Creative and Entrepreneurship Centre, Eco-Villas, a Family Park, Cultural Lounges, and a Sports Heritage Pavilion. Built as a Public-Private Partnership, it’s designed to draw investment and put Abuja on the global stage.
Meanwhile, the city’s grappling with other challenges. A tragic incident in Dei-Dei saw Mr. Ik Ojo found hanged, with locals suspecting foul play despite police investigations leaning toward suicide. The FCT Police are digging deeper, with an autopsy pending.
Abuja’s creative and sporting future looks bright, but its residents are calling for solutions to ongoing safety and infrastructure issues to match the city’s ambition.
