The European Union has launched the Africa–Europe Partnerships for Culture Nigeria Cluster as part of its plan to empower artists, expand creative networks, and strengthen cultural cooperation between Africa and Europe. The project, valued at €30 million and funded by the EU, is implemented by Goethe-Institut to support Nigerian artists, cultural organisations, and creative professionals across Sub-Saharan Africa and Europe. The programme aims to boost collaboration, promote cultural exchange, and encourage co-creation across continents.
Speaking at the official launch in Lagos State, Gautier Mignot, EU ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, said culture remains central to sustainable development, social cohesion, and inclusive growth. He stated, “We see culture as a driver of mutual understanding, creative innovation, and economic opportunity.” Mignot emphasised that the launch in Nigeria shows the EU’s strong commitment to cultural cooperation between Africa and Europe. According to him, “Culture is part and parcel of our Global Gateway strategy, aiming at connecting people and creating opportunities and sustainable shared prosperity.”
He added that the EU is committed to strengthening partnerships that amplify African voices and promote cultural diversity. He said, “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.”
Highlighting some EU-funded cultural programmes in Africa, Mignot explained that AEPC is one of several cultural initiatives. He said, “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 also noted that the EU supports cultural policy strengthening in Nigeria and other countries, in addition to smaller supports such as the Festival of Illustrators in Lagos and the Eastern Nigeria Film Festival in Enugu.
Reaffirming the EU’s dedication to assisting Nigerian creatives, Mignot said the goal is to ensure that artists from all parts of Nigeria can thrive internationally. “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 major milestone for cultural exchange and innovation between Africa and Europe. She said Nigeria’s creative sector is increasingly gaining global recognition. “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,” she stated.
Siegert said Goethe-Institut is committed to supporting Nigeria’s creative economy through collaboration, capacity building, and improved visibility for creators. She noted that the organisation aims to make cultural opportunities accessible to everyone by supporting creative hubs, digital platforms, and funding mechanisms. According to her, these efforts will help bridge gaps in resources and visibility, empowering diverse artists and cultural professionals.
Ayomide Adeagbo, Special Assistant to the President on Art, Culture and Creative Economy, said the Nigerian government remains committed to growing international creative partnerships. He explained that Nigeria encourages co-production, joint projects, and creative partnerships that link the country with other regions. Adeagbo said such exchanges help Nigerian stories reach global audiences through film, music, fashion, photography, and other creative sectors.
He added that the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy is expanding cultural initiatives and strengthening cultural diplomacy under Minister Hannatu Musawa. Adeagbo said the Nigerian creative economy needs strong collaboration and investment to grow. He stated that the government supports the AEPC because its vision aligns with national priorities. “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 event noted that the AEPC Nigeria Cluster will operate through open calls, capacity development programmes, and festival partnerships that encourage long-term cooperation. Stakeholders explained that Nigerian creatives working in areas such as theatre, visual arts, digital media, literature, and performance will have increased access to funding and international visibility. They added that the programme will also strengthen cultural institutions by supporting research, documentation, and cross-border projects that build stronger regional connections. Experts stressed that cultural exchange remains essential for shaping shared identities and supporting economic growth for young professionals in the creative sector.
Across West Africa, the AEPC promotes cooperation among Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo and the EU. The project is expected to train 250 professionals, support 450 artists, and connect 48 festivals. It also aims to strengthen West Africa–EU cultural relations for long-term social and economic benefits. These efforts promise wider opportunities ahead.
