The Ogun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Sesan Fagbayi, has emphasized the importance of cultural networking with other states in the country to advance the culture and tourism sector. Fagbayi 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” ¹.
According to Fagbayi, states have the opportunity to cross-fertilize ideas, network with one another, and maximize the economic potentials in the arts and culture. This, he believes, will boost the Internally Generated Revenue through cultural arts and crafts.
The commissioner also disclosed that the state would leave no stone unturned in restoring the glory and pride in the art of Adire fabric. He described Adire fabric as the pride of Ogun State, providing thousands of jobs to the people through its several value chains.
Fagbayi 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.
The Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr. Yusuff Quudus, also noted that 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, emphasized 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.
The Federal Government, according to Musawa, is committed to ensuring an enabling environment that supports the growth and development of the creative sector.
The Director General, Nigerian Council For Arts and Culture, Mr. Obi Asika, noted that culture and people are the strongest assets that Nigeria has, adding that it is imperative to empower the people and connect the culture.
Fagbayi’s call for cultural networking is seen as a step in the right direction towards promoting arts and culture in Nigeria, and it is hoped that it will yield positive results in the tourism sector.
