Hannatu Musawa Wins Outstanding Innovation in Public Service Award

The Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has been conferred with the Outstanding Innovation in Public Service Award at the 2025 Nollywood Economic Outlook NEO 6.0 in Lagos.

This prestigious recognition is a testament to her groundbreaking work in transforming Nigeria’s creative economy.

The citation reads in part, “Under her visionary leadership, the creative industry is experiencing unprecedented growth and global recognition. Musawa has successfully fostered collaboration among local stakeholders, academia, the private sector, and creatives, creating a synergy that is driving innovation and economic development”.

It continued: Musawa’s innovative approach has instilled renewed hope in Nigeria’s creative industry, with initiatives that harness the economic potential of various artistic expressions, including music, film, fashion, visual arts, and literature. Her commitment to preserving and showcasing Nigeria’s cultural heritage through initiatives such as cultural centres, museums, traditional arts, and cultural exchange programmes has been particularly noteworthy”.

The impressive citation also stated that the Minister’s impressive credentials include a law degree from the University of Buckingham, a Postgraduate Masters Degree in Legal Aspects of Marine Affairs from the University of Cardiff, and a Postgraduate Masters Degree in Oil and Gas Law from the University of Aberdeen. As a qualified Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, she brings a wealth of experience to her role.

The prestigious Outstanding Innovation in Public Service Award is a confirmation to Musawa’s dedication to innovation in public service.

Her contributions are indeed helping to move Nigeria forward, and we celebrate her achievement.

The Nollywood Economic Outlook seeks to convene leading voices from across the various sectors of the economy to tackle the industry’s most pressing issues with a dynamic mix of industry leaders, forward-thinking individuals, government agencies, Energy companies, Financial sector, corporate organisations among others to explore emerging opportunities, address challenges, and chart a sustainable course for the future of the Nigerian Economy.

The NEO Awards recognises the men and women driving significant, sustainable and scalable impact through their works and the initiative they lead. It seeks to recognize, applaud, and showcase a diverse array of the most impactful individuals spanning various sectors, all dedicated to community service and societal advancement.

It’s vision is to celebrate those unsung heroes who, without fanfare, have transformed society and continue to have a significant impact on lives and communities while it’s mission is to shine the light on these exceptional innovators, not only to honour their efforts but also to amplify their voices. In doing so, they aim to foster an environment of positivity and proactive engagements.

Barrister Hannatu Musawa was represented by the Director General, Centre fo Black and African Arts and Civilisation, Hon. Aisha Adamu Augie, Director General, National Institute for Sports, Prof. Olawale Moronkola, Director General, National Film and Film Video Censors Board, Dr. Shaibu Husseini, Hon. Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to the Lagos state Governor on Arts, Culture and Tourism, Ejike Asiegbu, former president, Actors Guild of Nigeria, Legendary Actors, Sunny Mcdon, Tony Akposheri, Shan George, Founder, Abuja International Film Festival, Fidelis Duker, International Film Director, Uzoudinma Okpechi and ICONIC Film Director, Teco Benson, MRF among others.