The Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has highlighted the numerous benefits of arts for health and well-being.
In a virtual presentation to flag-off the National Arts in Health Week 2024 holding in Lagos, Musawa emphasised the transformative power of arts in promoting physical, emotional, and mental well-being, and called for greater recognition and support for arts in health initiatives.
In a statement by her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Nneka Ikem Anibeze, Musawa said, “The National Arts in Health Week Nigeria 2024 stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering community well-being through the transformative power of the arts.
“Through painting, drawing, sculpting, and other artistic modalities, individuals are provided with a safe and supportive space to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Art therapy empowers individuals to externalize internal struggles, gain insight into their inner world, and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity.
“Art serves as a powerful medium for communication and expression, particularly for those who struggle to articulate their thoughts and emotions verbally. For individuals grappling with mental health challenges, trauma, or chronic illness, art provides a nonverbal outlet for self-expression, allowing them to communicate complex feelings and experiences that may otherwise remain unspoken.
“Let us reaffirm our commitment to championing the transformative power of art in health, well-being, and therapy. Together, let us harness the boundless potential of arts to inspire hope, ignite creativity, and cultivate a brighter, more compassionate future for all”.
In his closing remarks, the Artistic Director of, the National Troupe of Nigeria Hajiya Kaltume Bulama Gana congratulated the organizers of the National Arts in Health Week Nigeria on its successful opening and acknowledged the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy’s valuable partnership.
Gana emphasized the importance of arts in promoting health, well-being, and unity, highlighting its transformative power in fostering physical, mental, and emotional wellness.
“Through music, dance, drama, and the visual arts, the transformative power of creativity in promoting physical, mental, and emotional wellness is being harnessed.
The performances by the National Troupe of Nigeria have not only captivated our senses but have also underscored the profound impact that arts can have on our health. From reducing stress and anxiety to enhancing cognitive function and fostering social connection, the arts serve as a powerful tool for holistic healing and resilience.”
There were also goodwill messages from Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the
Honourable Minister of Health, Mr. Christopher Bailey, WHO Arts and Health Lead & Co-Founder of Jameel Arts and Health Lab and Dr.Yewande Okuleye, Poet, Cultural Producer, and Humanities Specialist,(UK)
Throughout the week, participants will engage in a diverse array of workshops, seminars, exhibitions, and performances that showcase the benefits of arts for health and well-being.
The National Arts in Health Week Nigeria 2024 is organised in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, the Global Arts in Medicine Fellowship, the Ministry of Health, and the WHO-Jameel Arts and Health Lab.
