Nigeria’s Diverse Cultural Heritage: A Catalyst for National Cohesion and Socio-Economic Development

The Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, has underscored the significance of Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage in promoting national cohesion and socio-economic development. This statement was made during the declaration of the 2024 National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) in Abuja.

The festival, currently ongoing at the National Council for Arts and Culture, showcases the rich cultural heritage of over 20 states in Nigeria. The event features a display of arts, crafts, and cultural performances, highlighting the country’s diverse ethnic nationalities.

Barrister Musawa stressed that Nigeria has great potential in arts and crafts, which should be promoted and protected by the government and stakeholders. She expressed the federal government’s determination to strengthen synergy with relevant stakeholders to create awareness on the importance of promoting culture, arts, crafts, norms, and values to the younger generation.

The Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, Dr. Obi Asika, emphasized the federal government’s focus on the cultural and creative industries. He stated that the council will work with stakeholders to harness the potential of the sector for significant contributions to the national economy.

The commissioner for information, culture, and tourism in Nasarawa State, Othman Ibrahim Angbolo, described NAFEST as an avenue to improve diversity and creativity among Nigerians. He expressed optimism that Nasarawa State would emerge victorious in all the competitions lined up for NAFEST 2024.

Some of the competitions include the cooking competition, known as the Jollof War, and the dance-off competition, in which the Nasarawa State contingent has participated and qualified for the next round.

Key Objectives of NAFEST 2024

Promote National Cohesion: Foster unity and harmony among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic nationalities
Socio-Economic Development: Harness the potential of the cultural and creative industries for significant contributions to the national economy
Cultural Preservation: Promote and protect Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage for future generations