President Bola Tinubu has directed the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to harness and develop the arts, culture, and tourism potential in Abuja.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, disclosed this on Wednesday during the opening ceremony of the “2024 Abuja Festival of Arts and Culture (ASOFEST).”
ASOFEST is an annual festival that provides both indigenous and other ethnic groups residing in the FCT the opportunity to showcase their cultures, as well as promote unity and peaceful coexistence.
Wike, who was represented by the Mandate Secretary of the Social Development Secretariat (SDS), Ibrahim Aminu, stated that the current administration would give due attention to cultural heritage, especially those that contribute meaningfully to economic growth and enhance people’s lives.
He disclosed that his administration would support programs and initiatives to promote Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage to global markets.
He said, “This festival creates a viable platform for skill acquisition and transfer, as well as opportunities for youth and women to gain employment.”
“Mr. President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has given me specific instructions to develop, grow, and nurture the arts, culture, and tourism hubs in the FCT, and that is exactly what we intend to do.
“My administration will continue to support initiatives and programs in this regard, in line with the clear directives of Mr. President. For the remainder of the year, numerous cultural festivities will be on display in the Federal Capital Territory, allowing residents, visitors, and those in transit to enjoy the best of cultural displays and entertainment in the FCT.”
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“Let me assure you that, in a week or two, the FCT will host the 2024 edition of the National Festival of Arts & Culture (NAFEST), another major cultural event in Nigeria that seeks to bring together stakeholders in the arts and culture industry to interact, showcase talents, and project Nigeria’s heritage. The FCT Administration is already collaborating with the National Council of Arts and Culture (NCAC) to ensure an unforgettable festival in the nation’s capital.”
“We want to use this opportunity to assure you that the FCT Administration, through the Department of Arts and Culture, will continue to produce programs and activities that will bring smiles and relief to the wonderful people of the FCT as a way to ease the stress associated with realistic and seemingly tough economic policies undertaken by the current administration, ultimately meant to improve the lives of the majority in the long run,” he emphasized.
Earlier in her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the SDS, Olubumi Olowookere, noted that the festival provides an opportunity for Nigerians residing in the FCT to appreciate diverse cultural elements.
Olowookere added that the festival serves not only as a medium for cultural enrichment but also as a platform for value transmission and exposure.
