The High Commissioner of Jamaica, H.E. Ambassador Lincoln G. Downer, paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, Esq., on Thursday in Abuja. The visit was aimed at resuming bilateral discussions on the Nigeria-Jamaica Tourism Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding and exploring new avenues for collaboration between the two nations.
During the meeting, both parties reviewed the progress made so far on the draft MoU and reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening cultural and economic ties. The proposed agreement is intended to facilitate greater people-to-people exchanges, promote joint tourism initiatives, and create opportunities for investment and partnership across the creative industries, hospitality, and heritage sectors.
Minister Musawa emphasized Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and growing creative economy as key assets for deeper cooperation with Jamaica, noting the strong historical and cultural affinities between the two countries. Ambassador Downer highlighted Jamaica’s interest in building institutional partnerships that would enhance cultural diplomacy, skills exchange, and mutual tourism promotion.
The parties agreed to expedite the finalization of the MoU in the coming weeks, with a focus on actionable programs that deliver tangible benefits for citizens of both countries. This includes audio-visual and co-production, cultural exchange programmes, tourism, health and education, capacity building for tourism professionals, and collaboration between creative entrepreneurs in music, film, fashion, and the arts.
The meeting marks another step forward in Nigeria’s efforts to position culture and tourism as strategic pillars for economic diversification and international engagement.