Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy

The Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy is a newly restructured ministry from the former nomenclature of Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism of the immediate past administration, it is being headed by a Honorable Commissioner and an administrative leadership of a Permanent Secretary, the ministry consists of eight departments namely;

1. Department of Administrations and Supplies
2. Department of Finance and Accounts
3. Department of Culture
4. Department of Visual Arts
5. Department of Creative Economy
6. Department of Performing Arts
7. Department of Business and Innovations
8. Department of Planning, Research, Statistics and Documentation

To become a leading model in Nigeria for cultural preservation, cultural diplomacy and mainstreaming of creative works into the economic development of the state as well as ensuring that Ekiti State’s unique identity enriches the world.

To preserve, promote and develop Ekiti State’s rich cultural heritage as well as harness the creativity of its people.

Diligence, resourcefulness and transparency

The Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy undertakes a wide range of roles and responsibilities to achieve its mission and vision. These include:

• Cultural Preservation: Safeguarding and documenting Ekiti’s traditional customs, languages, art, and artifacts.
• Cultural Promotion: Organizing cultural festivals, exhibitions, and workshops to celebrate and educate about Ekiti’s heritage.
• Talents discovery and promotion: The Ministry is also saddled with the responsibility of unearthing budding talented Ekiti indigenes and creating a platform for them to showcase these talents and market them for job creation.
• Cultural Diplomacy: Collaborating with other states and nations to share Ekiti’s culture and foster international partnerships.

Ekiti State is a homogeneous state; each town contributes to the state’s cultural milieu through distinct customs, dances, music, and art forms. The Ministry plays a pivotal role in preserving and promoting this rich cultural heritage through cultural events, workshops, and educational programs.

Ekiti State is blessed with rich cultural, heritage sites and festivals, such as Udiroko festival in Ado Ekiti, Ogun Onire Grove, Amomo Festival and Osun Osogbo river source in Igede-Ekiti. The Ministry actively works on developing these attractions, improving infrastructure, and promoting Ekiti as a prime Cultural destination.

While Ekiti State’s potential in Culture and Creative Arts is vast, it is not without its challenges. Infrastructure development, including road networks and accommodations, remains a priority. Additionally, the Ministry faces the task of balancing modernization with the preservation of cultural authenticity.

Nevertheless, opportunities abound in Ekiti’s cultural and creative sector. With strategic planning, investments, and collaborations, the state can attract a growing number of tourists, boosting the local economy. Furthermore, Ekiti’s cultural diplomacy efforts can foster international partnerships, enhancing global recognition and understanding of its unique heritage.

1. Construction of Ekiti State Cultural Centre (On-going)
2. Ekiti State Arts Endowment Funds (First Tranche Concluded)
3. Regular hosting of a monthly Sunday-Sunday Verity Show (On-going)
4. Continuously making concerted effort to enlist national and international sponsorship for the MDA’s programmes and projects (On-going)
5. Construction of a befitting Cultural/ Film village (Upcoming)
6. Ekiti Festival of Arts and Culture (EKIFEST) (Upcoming)

The Ekiti State Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy stand tall of preserving a rich cultural legacy and unlocking the potential of an expanding arts and culture industry. It remains committed to the mission of preserving, promoting, and developing Ekiti State’s heritage, enriching the lives of its people, and inviting the world to experience the wonders of this vibrant Nigerian state. As Ekiti continues to evolve and flourish, the Ministry is poised to play an indispensable role in shaping its cultural and economic future. The Ministry welcomes all stakeholders, both local and international, to join hands in the endeavor to make Ekiti State a beacon of culture and a must-visit destination for tourists from around the world.