Hannatu Musa Musawa, a distinguished lawyer, politician, and author, currently serves as Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy. With a background in law and a strong political career, Musawa is at the forefront of shaping Nigeria’s cultural and creative sectors.

Early Life & Education

Born on November 1, 1974, in Katsina State, Musawa hails from a political lineage as the daughter of the late Alhaji Musa Musawa, a notable member of the Northern Elements Progressive Union.

She pursued higher education in the United Kingdom, earning a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Buckingham. She later obtained two master’s degrees—one in marine affairs law from the University of Cardiff and another in oil and gas law from the University of Aberdeen.

Legal & Political Career

After being called to the Nigerian Bar, Musawa built a thriving legal career, working in private law firms in the UK and Wales before founding Hanney Musawa & Associates in Nigeria in 2005. Her legal expertise spans diverse areas, including marine and oil and gas law.

In politics, Musawa served as a spokesperson for the APC during the 2023 presidential campaign and was also part of the legal team in the 2003 presidential election petition between Muhammadu Buhari and Olusegun Obasanjo.

Her political trajectory led to her appointment as Special Adviser on Culture and Entertainment Economy under President Bola Tinubu, before being elevated to Minister in 2023.

Ministerial Role & Controversies

As Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Musawa is tasked with promoting and developing Nigeria’s creative industry while preserving its cultural heritage.

However, her appointment has not been without controversy. In 2020, the Senate rejected her nomination as a National Commissioner at the National Pension Commission over NYSC-related concerns—an issue that resurfaced after her ministerial appointment in 2023.

Personal Life

Musawa was previously married to Samad Rabiu, Nigeria’s second-richest man and a well-known philanthropist. She is also a passionate advocate for human rights and remains active on social media, where she shares insights into her work and personal interests.

With her legal background and political influence, Musawa's leadership in the creative and cultural sectors is expected to shape Nigeria’s artistic landscape in the years ahead.