Overview

The National Council for Arts and Culture Act (1975 No. 3) establishes the National Council for Arts and Culture as a corporate body responsible for assisting the Federal Government of Nigeria in planning, coordinating, and encouraging arts and cultural activities. The Act, which came into force on 21 February 1975, outlines the constitution of the Council, its functions, powers, funding mechanisms, and administrative procedures. The Council consists of a chairman and members appointed by the President, including representatives from state arts councils, universities, federal ministries, traditional institutions, and the Director. Key functions include promoting Nigerian arts and culture, coordinating cultural activities, assisting the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, organizing exhibitions, facilitating inter-state cultural exchanges, and supporting various art forms such as music, dance, drama, literature, and crafts. The Council has powers to establish cultural centres, theatres, galleries, and craft centres with ministerial approval, enter contracts, acquire property, and raise funds through grants, donations, and fees. The Act also provides for the appointment of a Director and staff, pension benefits, removal of members, annual reporting, auditing, and dissolution of the former Nigerian Arts Council with transfer of its assets and liabilities to the new body. The Minister may issue directives and the Council can make standing orders for its proceedings.

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