‘We made a pact’– Musawa pledges partnership with ex-minister Ade-John to boost tourism

Hannatu Musawa, minister of art, culture, tourism, and the creative economy, says she will work closely with Lola Ade-John, her predecessor, to boost the tourism industry.

Last week, in a spree of reforms to his cabinet, President Bola Tinubu approved the merger of the ministry of tourism with the ministry of culture and creative economy, relieving Ade-John of her portfolio.

Speaking at a formal handover ceremony on Wednesday, Musawa relived moments with Ade-John and described her exit as “bittersweet.”

The minister commended Ade-John’s achievements at the ministry and promised to build on her foundations.

“In Honourable Minister Lola Ade-John, I found a sister and a friend,” a statement issued by Nneka Anibeze, Musawa’s special adviser, media and publicity, quoted her to have said.

“We started this journey almost similarly. It was very difficult for both of us.

“We had very many challenges coming into this role, and we made a pact to work together because our ministries were very much integrated.

“This is very bittersweet to me. Sweet because I can see the progression of not only the industry but of tourism, as it gives us the opportunity to foster something very unique for Nigeria and for the industry.

“However, it is very bitter for me to see someone who has worked so hard not to have the opportunity to get to the end of the journey.

“I promise you that all that you have done, you will take credit for it. Everything that I will announce that you have started, I will make sure that the world, the administration, the president, and everybody in the industry know that that is your work that I am presenting.”

Ade-John thanked Tinubu for the privilege to serve in his administration.

“I wish to acknowledge the fantastic support that I had from the directors-general, heads of departments, and my aides,” she added.

“I want to specially thank the minister, who is also my sister. She was the only minister who came to see me in my house when I came back from my sick bed in the United Kingdom.”

The former minister pledged her support to Musawa.