FG Reiterates Commitment to Preservation of Cultural Heritage
The federal government says its fully committed to preserving and developing the nation’s rich cultural heritage to make greater impacts on the world stage.
The Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa stated this in her address during the grand finale of this year’s world Sango festival held in Oyo town.
The Minister noted that recognition of the festival by the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization, UNESCO would further promote the nation’s cultural heritage and boost the economy.
She called on Nigerians to support President Tinubu’s administration in its renewed hope agenda to strengthen global cultural relationships.
In his remark, the ambassador of Portugal to Nigeria, Dr. Paulo Santos said Nigeria has no doubt recorded a worthy feat by gaining UNESCO’s approval of Sango festival as a global cultural heritage product, having potentials to boost the nation’s tourism industry.
Dr. Santos also noted that apart from other similar socioeconomic benefits, culture has an inbuilt capacity to promote mutual understanding, peace and unity among nations.
Recalling the twelve years struggle to get Sango festival gain approval of the world body, Cultural ambassador to Alaafin of Oyo, Dr. Paula Gomes appreciated the efforts of late Alaafin Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi, the traditional religion adherents, the support of the Oyo state government plus the global vision of the federal ministry of culture.
The grand finale which was attended by large crowd of culture local and international enthusiasts featured Yoruba traditional performances by Oyo and Lagos states cultural troupe, earlier preceded by adherents of various Yoruba deities.
