Nigeria and France have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cultural and creative collaborations at the Création Africa Forum Pitching Award ceremony held in Lagos.

The Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, received the French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, and commended the French Government for its continued investment in Nigeria’s creative industries.

Barrister Musawa noted that France’s support for sustainable creative infrastructure is empowering young innovators and expanding Nigeria’s global cultural influence. She emphasised that the partnership between both nations reflects the shared vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and President Emmanuel Macron to promote bilateral cooperation and position Africa’s creative economy as a major driver of inclusive growth and social transformation.

The event also featured a special exhibition celebrating Nigerian artistic excellence, honouring the legendary Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, whose music continues to inspire movements for freedom and identity across the world. Guests were treated to a live performance by Femi Anikulapo-Kuti, which further highlighted Nigeria’s vibrant musical heritage.

Reaffirming Nigeria’s leadership as Africa’s creative capital, the Minister pledged the Federal Government’s continued support for cultural exchange, talent export, and the development of creative infrastructure.

She described the Création Africa Forum as a new chapter in Africa–Europe relations, built on mutual respect, innovation, and shared prosperity through the arts.