Ogun commissioner advocates state partnerships to boost tourism, culture
Ogun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Sesan Fagbayi, said that leveraging the inherent benefits of cultural networking with other states in the country would advance the culture and tourism sector.
Fagbayi also disclosed that the state would leave no stone unturned in restoring the glory and pride in the art of Adire fabric.
According to a statement on Tuesday, the commissioner made this known during the opening of the 2024 National Festival for Arts and Culture at the Arts and Craft Village, Abuja, tagged; “Connected Culture”.
Fagbayi stated, “States have the opportunity to cross-fertilise ideas, network with one another to maximise the economic potentials in the arts and culture and thereby boost the Internally Generated Revenue through cultural arts and crafts.”
“Our pride in Ogun State is Adire Fabric, which has provided thousands of jobs to our people through its several value chains. So, we will never rest on our oars. We shall continue to do all that is within our power to protect this industry and ensure that it keeps flourishing.”
He commended the Dapo Abiodun-led administration for supporting cultural activities in the state and ensuring the participation of contingents in the ongoing International Arts and Crafts Arts expo and NAFEST.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr Yusuff Quudus, said NAFEST has brought about meaningful interaction and building of cultural opportunities between states.
In her remarks, the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Mrs Hannatu Musawa, emphasised the transformative power of arts and culture in promoting national unity, social cohesion and economic growth.
Musawa, represented by the Director General and Chief Executive Officer, of the National Film and Censors Board, Dr Shuaibu Hussein, said the festival’s theme was apt as it reflects a commitment, to promoting arts and culture as a catalyst to economic development.
Hannatu added that the Federal Government was committed to ensuring an enabling environment that supports the growth and development of the creative sector, urging participants to celebrate the diversity, creativity and resilience towards promoting arts and culture for economic diversification.
On his part, the Director General, Nigerian Council For Arts and Culture, Mr. Obi Asika, noted that culture and people were the strongest assets that Nigeria has, adding that it was imperative to empower the people and connect the culture.
