The Nigerian Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, in collaboration with MADhouse by Tikera Africa, has announced the Re-imagining Hope Residency, a six-week program designed to explore the role of art in addressing societal issues.
Set to run in two phases across the first and second quarters of 2025, the residency will bring together 20 selected creatives from across Nigeria. Participants will also engage in structured mentorship, collaborative workshops, and open studio sessions, with a focus on producing works that integrate Nigeria’s cultural heritage with contemporary themes.
In a statement, Hannatu Musa Musawa, Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, underscored the initiative’s broader objectives.
“This residency highlights the creative industry’s role in shaping national identity and addressing societal challenges,” she said.
Osarume Akenzua, Director of Innovation and Enterprise at Tikera Africa, described the program as an effort to examine how artistic expression can serve as a tool for dialogue and transformation.
“We view this as more than a residency—it is an opportunity to reconsider the intersection of art, culture, and economic development,” Akenzua stated.
The residency will offer participants access to MADhouse’s facilities, shared studio spaces, and cultural excursions aimed at deepening their understanding of Nigeria’s artistic traditions. It will also serve as a networking platform, fostering connections between artists and stakeholders in the creative sector.
While the program positions art as a vehicle for social engagement, its broader implications remain to be seen. As Nigeria continues to expand its investment in cultural initiatives, the residency may serve as a model for future efforts that seek to merge artistic practice with national development goals.
