Musawa promotes the advantages of arts for health, overall well-being

On May 7, 2024

The Nigerian Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has emphasized the myriad advantages of the arts for health and well-being.

During a virtual presentation marking the commencement of the National Arts in Health Week 2024 in Lagos, Musawa underscored the transformative influence of the arts in enhancing physical, emotional, and mental well-being. She also advocated for increased acknowledgment and backing of arts in health endeavors.

“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,” she said.

“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,” Minister Musawa added.

According to her, “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”, she said

During her closing comments, Hajiya Kaltume Gana, the Artistic Director of the National Troupe of Nigeria, commended the organizers of the National Arts in Health Week Nigeria for a successful commencement and recognized the valuable partnership of the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy.

Gana underscored the significance of the arts in advancing health, well-being, and unity, emphasizing its capacity to bring about transformative effects on physical, mental, and emotional wellness.

She said, “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”, she added

There were also goodwill messages from the Honourable Minister of Health, Professor Muhammad Pate, WHO Arts and Health Lead & Co-Founder of Jameel Arts and Health Lab, Christopher Bailey

and Poet, Cultural Producer, and Humanities Specialist,(UK) Dr.Yewande Okuleye,

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 organized in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, the Global Arts in Medicine Fellowship, the Ministry of Health, and the WHO-Jameel Arts and Health Lab.

O.O