The European Union has unveiled the Africa–Europe Partnerships for Culture Nigeria Cluster, a major initiative aimed at empowering artists, broadening creative networks, and deepening cultural ties between the two continents.

The €30 million programme, funded by the EU and implemented by the Goethe-Institut, is designed to support Nigerian creatives, cultural organisations, and professionals across both Sub-Saharan Africa and Europe.
Its broader goal is to strengthen collaboration, promote cultural exchange, and foster cross-continental co-creation.

Speaking during the official launch in Lagos, Gautier Mignot, the EU ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, underscored the role of culture in development and unity.

He described culture as central to sustainable progress, saying, “We see culture as a driver of mutual understanding, creative innovation, and economic opportunity.”

Mignot noted that hosting the launch in Nigeria reflects the EU’s strong commitment to African–European cultural cooperation.

He said, “Culture is part and parcel of our Global Gateway strategy, aiming at connecting people and creating opportunities and sustainable shared prosperity.”

He further highlighted the EU’s dedication to elevating African voices and celebrating cultural diversity.

“Our goal is to create spaces where voices can be heard, where creative talents can grow without limits and where stories that often remain unseen and forgotten can find itself in the global community,” he said.

Mignot also cited other EU-funded cultural initiatives on the continent, noting that AEPC forms part of a wider cultural strategy. He explained, “Let me just mention two other EU-funded cultural programmes in Africa: Strengthening African-European Museum partnerships, a €20 million programme to support collaborative projects between African and European museums, and Creative Africa, a €15 million upcoming project that will support collaboration between the two Audiovisual ecosystems.”

He added that the EU continues to support cultural policy development in Nigeria, alongside smaller initiatives such as the Lagos Festival of Illustrators and the Eastern Nigeria Film Festival in Enugu.

Reiterating the EU’s commitment to Nigerian creatives, Mignot stressed the need for inclusivity and equal opportunity.

“Together, we can ensure that no creative is left behind, and that talent from West, East, South and North Nigeria can thrive on international stages. We just have to spread the voice and encourage as many organisations and creators to check if they are eligible, build or finalise strong projects and apply,” he said.

Nadine Siegert, director of the Goethe-Institut Nigeria, described the launch as a significant step forward for innovation and cultural exchange between Africa and Europe. She praised Nigeria’s rapidly rising creative influence globally, stating, “Through initiatives like the AEPC, we are not only showcasing Nigeria’s talent internationally but also creating pathways for collaboration, learning, and sustainable development within the cultural industry.”

Siegert emphasised that the Goethe-Institut is dedicated to building Nigeria’s creative economy by strengthening collaboration, improving skills, and enhancing visibility for creators.

She noted that the organisation supports hubs, digital platforms, and funding systems designed to close gaps in resources and opportunity, ultimately empowering a wide range of artists.

Ayomide Adeagbo, Special Assistant to the President on Art, Culture and Creative Economy, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to international creative partnerships.
He highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to promote co-production, cross-border projects, and cultural exchanges that help Nigerian talent reach global audiences.

Adeagbo said these initiatives complement the work being expanded under Minister Hannatu Musawa at the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy.

He stressed that investment and collaboration are vital for the sector’s growth.

Supporting the AEPC, he explained, aligns with the country’s cultural and economic goals.

“It amplifies the opportunities we are determined to create for Nigerians. This platform opens doors for collaboration, capacity building and cultural exchange between Africa and Europe. We want creatives to see themselves not just as beneficiaries of policy but as partners in innovation and development so that together we can unlock the full potential of the sector,” he said.

Officials at the launch revealed that the AEPC Nigeria Cluster will operate through open calls, professional training programmes, and festival partnerships aimed at fostering long-term cooperation. Stakeholders noted that Nigerian creatives across theatre, visual arts, digital media, literature and performance will gain increased access to funding and global exposure.

The initiative will also reinforce cultural institutions through support for research, documentation, and cross-border collaborations that strengthen regional ties.

Across West Africa, the AEPC encourages cultural cooperation among 16 countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and others, alongside the European Union.

The project aims to train 250 professionals, support 450 artists, and connect 48 festivals, ultimately enhancing cultural relations between West Africa and the EU for lasting social and economic impact.

These combined efforts signal brighter opportunities ahead for Nigeria’s creative sector and the wider region.