The National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to accelerate the digital transformation of Nigeria’s creative and cultural industries. The agreement, formalized at The Omniverse 2.0 Summit, marks a pivotal shift in the fusion of technology and culture to unlock new economic opportunities.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Obi Asika, Director General of NCAC, emphasized the transformative impact of the collaboration, stating:

“with this partnership, we are laying the digital foundation that will empower Nigeria’s artists, filmmakers, and creators to thrive in the digital age. This MoU is not just a partnership; it is a bold step towards shaping a future where Nigeria’s creative talents lead in the digital world. One thing is certain—Nigeria’s creative economy is digital, and the world is watching.”

The agreement is set to revolutionize the creative economy by integrating digital platforms, AI, Web3, and NFT technology to enhance global competitiveness. It also includes the development of creative-tech innovation hubs, bridging local talent with the infrastructure needed to scale content, gaming, and virtual production.

In his remarks, Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of NITDA, underscored the role of technology in unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s creative industry.

“Nigeria’s creative sector is one of our greatest assets, yet much of its potential remains untapped. Through this collaboration, we will deploy digital platforms, equip creatives with essential digital skills, and provide the necessary infrastructure to enable global scaling and monetization. This partnership with NCAC is a commitment to building a digitally empowered creative sector that will drive economic growth and position Nigeria’s rich culture on the global stage.”

The partnership is designed to propel Nigeria’s creative economy towards a $100 billion industry by 2030, up from its current estimated value of $25 billion (PwC). The collaboration will focus on:

Digital Platforms for Creative Commerce: Enhancing access to e-commerce, streaming, and blockchain authentication.

Digital Skills for the Creative Workforce: Training artists and creatives in AI, Web3, and NFT monetization.

Creative-Tech Infrastructure and Innovation Hubs: Establishing centers to support content creation, gaming, and virtual production.

Centralized Digital Marketplace Platforms: Providing a unified space for Nigerian creatives to market their work globally.

Investment Mobilization: Attracting local and international funding to expand the industry’s reach and economic impact.

The signing of the MoU was a key highlight of The Omniverse Africa Summit 2025, which brought together global leaders, investors, and innovators shaping Africa’s digital future. Dignitaries in attendance included: The Executive Governor of Lagos State , Babajide Sanwolu, the Minister for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Bar. Hannatu Musa Musawa, the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Various state commissioners, Directors-General, and business leaders from over 20 countries.

Commenting on the significance of the event, Charles Emembolu, Co-Convener of Omniverse Africa, stated:

“with this partnership, NCAC and NITDA are ensuring that Nigerian creatives don’t just participate in the digital economy—they lead it. The bridge between technology and creativity has been built; now, it’s time to put traffic on it.”

This collaboration between NCAC and NITDA underscores Nigeria’s position as a leader in digital cultural innovation. By leveraging technology to scale the creative sector, the country is poised to create thousands of digital jobs, expand global market access for Nigerian creatives, and contribute significantly to national GDP growth.

With the fusion of technology, innovation, and culture at Omniverse 2.0, Nigeria is not just adapting to the digital revolution—it is leading it.