Sterling Bank, FG and Investors Push New Tourism Growth Plan

Sterling Bank has convened government officials, regulators, investors and industry operators in Lagos to coordinate fresh investment plans for Nigeria’s tourism and creative economy.

Participants said stronger cooperation between the public and private sectors is needed to convert growing global interest in Nigerian culture and destinations into year-round economic value. Discussions centred on policy alignment, financing, infrastructure and support for tourism and creative businesses.

Sterling Bank Managing Director Abubakar Suleiman said tourism and the creative sector can create jobs, grow foreign exchange earnings and support inclusive growth, but only if financing, regulation, infrastructure and talent development are aligned.

Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy Hannatu Musa Musawa said the Federal Government is pursuing partnership-led growth and improved financing structures to unlock investment in tourism assets and creative enterprises.

The President’s Special Adviser on Tourism, Arts and the Creative Economy, Moriam Ajaga, said policy coherence and access to finance remain key priorities under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

At the meeting, speakers also called for sector-specific finance products and stronger collaboration with traditional institutions to preserve and responsibly commercialise Nigeria’s cultural heritage.