The Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Akeem Dauda, has urged residents to embrace Yoruba cultural heritage as the council joined other parts of Lagos in marking this year’s Isese Day celebration.
The celebration, declared a public holiday by the Lagos State Government, seeks to honour the Yoruba people’s traditional roots while correcting misconceptions about indigenous practices.
Speaking at the event, Dauda stressed the importance of cultural revival in the face of growing Western influence. He lamented that many young people are gradually losing touch with their identity, particularly through the declining use of the Yoruba language.
“This holiday is to remind our people that we must find our roots, celebrate our culture, and take pride in our heritage. We cannot allow our values and traditions to fade away,” Dauda said.
The council boss also addressed negative stereotypes surrounding traditional worship, clarifying that Isese Day is not about rituals or sacrifices but a broader celebration of Yoruba heritage, spirituality, and community life.
He thanked Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for institutionalising the holiday, noting that Ikeja Local Government supported communities with cows and other items to enable widespread participation in the celebration.
Dauda added that the day should not be seen as exclusive to traditional religion adherents but as a cultural festival for all residents, irrespective of faith.
“All baales within Ikeja are marking Isese Day because we must promote our culture. It is our heritage, and we must not let it go down the drain,” he said.
A cultural television programme featuring school children from 12 – 15 years of age will showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage through dance.
The competition: “Proz Kids Fest’ Cultural Dance Competition”, will be held at regional and national levels.
In a statement, Felix Ogbaudu, Board of Trustees chair of Promanttra Communications, producers of the programme, said the show would promote unity and brotherhood among citizens—a mindset he says needs to be instilled in our youth.
Announcing his agency’s collaboration with Promanttra Communications, Executive Secretary of National Institute for Cultural Orientation, (NICO), Biodun Ajiboye, said the competition is aimed at motivating and inspiring young ones through cultural dance. Culture is everyone’s identity and teaching young ones our culture through dance is connecting them to their roots.
‘‘In line with our mandate of promoting and encouraging culture, National Institute for Cultural Orientation is supporting revival of our culture and saving it from extinction.’’
With the rise of glamour and style, fast fashion has flooded the market, offering an endless line-up of clothing to meet growing consumer demands. However, this trend has come at a great cost to society and the environment. A move towards sustainability in fashion has become a necessity. Perhaps, merging the words “sustainability” and “fashion” might once have seemed contradictory, but in today’s world, where the fashion industry contributes 10% of global carbon emmissions, the urgency for change is clear.
A 2017 report from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) also estimated that 35% of all microplastics — very small pieces of plastic that never biodegrade — in the ocean came from the laundering of synthetic textiles like polyester.
Sustainability has become a key focus in modern fashion, particularly as consumers are increasingly aware of and demanding ethical practices from brands. All of these greatly emphasise the urgent need for eco-friendly practices within the fashion industry and brands like Yehbo, under the leadership of Emmanuel Junior Yeboah, are responding to this call by making environmentally conscious choices.
Just like other fashion icons already walking this path. With the likes of Buki Akomolafe—a German-Nigerian designer who focuses on sustainable fashion by using eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton, ensuring that her collections have minimal environmental impact while supporting fair trade practices—to Bethany Williams, a UK-based designer who creates collections using recycled and waste materials. Williams collaborates with social projects, providing work opportunities to marginalized communities while creating innovative and sustainable garments.
As consumers become increasingly aware, sustainability has emerged as a focal point in modern fashion. People now demand ethical practices from brands that align with their values. Emmanuel Junior Yeboah has positioned itself as a frontrunner in sustainable fashion by choosing eco-friendly materials that significantly reduce its environmental footprint. This approach not only enhances the quality of Yehbo’s outfits but also aligns with the global movement toward a more sustainable future—not just for the fashion industry, but for the world at large. By prioritizing eco-friendly production methods and ethical sourcing, Yehbo stands firmly against fast fashion, encouraging consumers to make conscious, sustainable choices.
Founded in 2016, Yehbo has emerged as a progressive clothing line, recognized for its unique ability to create artistic, earth-toned outfits that pay homage to nature. The brand draws inspiration from feminine qualities, cultural identity, and an infusion of storytelling in its craftsmanship.
Yeboah’s Ghanaian heritage is inherently reflected in his collections, serving as the foundation for his 2023 line, Dahila, which celebrates the diverse textures of the African continent. Each piece is carefully designed, capturing the essence of being stylish yet culturally aware. Yehbo’s aesthetic is particularly captivating for those who appreciate nature-inspired designs.
Beyond his success in the fashion industry, Yeboah is dedicated to empowering local artisans by incorporating various cultural patterns from different African countries, His work emphasizes inclusivity and the spirit of ‘Ubuntu’. – fostering togetherness and socially friendly decisions.
The entire Dahila collection is an extraordinary fusion of cultural heritage and bold femininity. Drawing inspiration from traditional African Ankara prints, Emmanuel Yeboah, the designer, has crafted a series of outfits that embody the principles of slow fashion while celebrating the diversity and strength of women. Each piece is like a love letter to women of all shapes and sizes, blending cultural motifs with modern, cutting-edge fashion design.
At the heart of the collection is Yeboah’s deep connection to his African heritage, especially his use of Ankara fabric. Ankara has long been an emblem of cultural identity, often telling stories and conveying messages through its vibrant colours and intricate patterns. Although Ankara fabric originated from Indonesian batik, it was embraced by West African cultures in the mid-20th century, becoming a symbol of post-colonial identity and cultural resilience. TheDahilacollection weaves together these historical elements, allowing wearers to embrace their heritage while making a bold, contemporary statement.
Yehbo, as a fashion house, masterfully reinvents Ankara in a modern context, giving these traditionally rich prints new life in hues that resonate with the global woman.
A defining aspect of this collection is its commitment to sustainability. In an industry driven by fast fashion,Dahila stands out by embracing the ethics of slow fashion—prioritising the quality, longevity, and ethical production of garments. The use of locally produced Ankara supports African economies, with skilled artisans creating the fabric using eco-friendly, low-impact dyes. By sourcing materials locally, Emmanuel reduces the environmental footprint associated with long-distance shipping.
One of the central themes in Dahila is the celebration of the female body in all its forms. From crop tops to free-flowing pants, Emmanuel’s designs flatter a variety of body types, promoting inclusivity and empowering women to feel confident in their own skin. This approach reflects a broader movement within fashion to reject short-sighted beauty standards and embrace diversity.
The collection’s mix of structured tailoring and voluminous sleeves reflects the duality of femininity—soft yet strong, bold yet refined. Every detail, from the secured waistlines to the wide-leg trousers, is designed to enhance natural curves. Emmanuel’s clever use of colour, contrasting deep reds with vibrant blues and yellows, creates eye-catching patterns that are wearable.
Perhaps most impressive is the collection’s versatility. These garments transition effortlessly from casual settings to formal occasions, making them timeless staples in any wardrobe. This adaptability speaks to the slow fashion norms ensuring that these pieces will remain stylish for years to come.
Yehbo’s deep respect for African heritage, combined with its commitment to sustainability, positions this collection as both relevant and transformative. By promoting conscious consumption and ethical practices,Dahila challenges the wastefulness of fast fashion, offering a sustainable alternative that honours both heritage and the planet.
The use of breathable materials for each piece promotes comfort and style, making them perfect for women’s summer outfits. The collection is a mix of simple pieces for cool-to-hot weather, featuring two-piece, colourful, and vibrant outfits that exude energetic concepts. Emmanuel’s styles are not just for function; they are birthed from inspiration, paying attention to all details for every weather and occasion. From slim, shady looks to quick-run outfits with pockets that elevate style effortlessly. Pockets that serve as a convenience, much like men’s fashion. This relevance challenges traditional fashion norms that have prioritized aesthetics over functionality in women’s clothing.
Accessorising is a major determinant in fashion, influencing how an outfit is perceived. The wrong accessory choice can render an outfit less alluring. This is why Emmanuel meticulously styles each piece with a deep understanding of current fashion trends. His choice to pair simple jewellery with some outfits while opting for attractive earrings and statement pieces for others demonstrates a high level of craftsmanship. Emmanuel is not just a designer but a stylist who knows how to match accessories to each piece’s needs and style requirements.
While much has been said about the outfits, the hair also complements each look. The right hairstyle can either make or break an outfit and convey a specific message. For instance, a low bun or sleek updo can convey professionalism and formality, making it suitable for business settings or formal events. In contrast, a messy bun or loose waves might suggest a more laid-back style.
For this collection, Emmanuel opted for neatly packed low buns, allowing the outfits to shine while ensuring that the wearer can go about their day without worrying about their hair. Practical hairstyles like these focus attention on the outfit and accessories, providing a cleaner look.
The right amount of makeup can elevate an outfit while overdoing it can be a disadvantage. Emmanuel’s use of bold colours, such as ombre lipstick, complements the outfits perfectly, enhancing facial features and adding depth with dramatic lashes. Well-applied makeup boosts confidence and completes the overall look, making individuals feel more polished and put-together.
In addition to highlighting the face, incorporating the right shoes is crucial, though it is often overlooked. Shoes can make a powerful fashion statement. Whether sleek heels, trendy sneakers, or elegant flats, the right pair of shoes can define an outfit’s style. Emmanuel ensured that simple open-toe heels were the perfect choice for the collection, offering both ease of wear and comfort.
With simple, easy-to-wear tops cut at the midriff, they are perfect for beachwear when paired with shorts and as also suitable for date nights with longer trousers. Talk about thoughtful designs that consider the activities of everyday women in their styling—that’s the hallmark of the Yehbo brand.
Thiscollection isn’t just about clothing—it’s a celebration of femininity, culture, and sustainability. Emmanuel Yeboah is not only reviving traditional aesthetics but also pushing them forward, contributing to the growing global recognition of African fashion. His goal is to bring African designs to the forefront of the global fashion scene, joining the growing movement that celebrates African talent and heritage on the world stage.
African fashion is experiencing rapid growth due to an increasing demand for culturally rich, ethically produced garments. Dahila as a brand, is perfectly aligned with this trend, offering a bold statement on the future of fashion while celebrating its roots. For the modern woman who seeks to make a statement while honouring heritage and sustainability, this collection offers the perfect fusion of style and substance.
Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano yesterday in Ogidi called on Igbo people to sustain and promote their rich cultural heritage.
He spoke at the Ito Aro (retirement ceremony) Ogidi Cultural Festival, held at Ogidi Town Hall.
The governor stressed the need for Igbo people to encourage and sustain culture that celebrate people while alive, rather than honour them when they die.
Obiano praised the organisers, especially traditional ruler for the colourful and orderly nature of the event.
Traditional ruler of Ogidi, Igwe Alex Oyido, said the Ito Aro is an age-long traditional observance in Ogidi which had been abandoned for quite long.
“Ito Aro is deeply rooted in the age grade system in Igboland. Age grade in Ogidi have been very influential and impacted positively on communal discipline, community development and engineered healthy competitive spirit among the youths,” he said.
Brazilian Descendants Union Lagos, in conjunction with The Brazilian Consulate Lagos, has held its second yearly memorial lecture to immortalise its ancestors and celebrate the living. The event was held at the Shoremekun Hall on Broad Street, Lagos, OLATUNDE ODEBIYI and PETER OLUWADARE write.
TO preserve the Brazilian cultural heritage and values in Lagos, the Brazilian Descendants Union Lagos, in conjunction with The Brazilian Consulate, Lagos, has held its second annual memorial lecture to immortalise their ancestors and celebrate the living.
The theme of the lecture was: “Social vices in our society- why and what is the solution.”
The event was in honour of Libento Pedro family. The Brazilian descendants in Lagos consist mostly of descendant’s of freed Afro-Brazilian slave returnees who settled in Lagos.
In his welcome address, Lawal Pedro (SAN), said the lecture was in honour of Libento Pedro, who was one of the first set of freed or emancipated Africans repatriated from Brazil to Nigeria after the 1835 rebellion known as the Male Revolt led by the Yoruba slaves in the city of Salvador.
According to him, the lecture aims to revive the community known as the Brazilian descendants that has come to stay in Lagos. He referred to it as the beginning of civilisation on development in Lagos and in Nigeria in terms of architecture, culture and values.
He explained that the social vices in our society are caused by among other things the loss of our heritage and social/ moral values.
This, he said, is traceable to the omissions or actions of successive government in the state for not pursuing with passion the policy and law for the preservation / conservation of our cultural heritage.
“Why did we allow the destruction of most of the standard Brazilian Architecture houses in the community? The recent of which is d demolition of the Casa do Fernandez, one of the most beautiful mansions in the Brazilian quarters, whereas the National Commission for Museum and Monuments (NCMM) of the Federal Ministry of Culture and Tourism had listed the building as an historical property on April 5, 1956 and declared patrimony of the Federal Government in 1984.”
Pedro called on government agencies to have the passion to drive the policy of government in respect of preserving the cultural heritage.
“There is a policy and there is a law in this regard but what we need is to drive the policy with passion,” he said.
He announced the creation of an Endowment Fund by the Descendants to establish a Brazilian Descendant Cultural Centre (BDCC) for the restoration of the historical heritage, development of the community and empowerment of the youths towards reaching the social vices in the community.
The centre, he said would act as a tourist site for people in diaspora both Nigerian and foreigners, adding that it would also attract revenue for Lagos state government.
The Chairman on the occasion, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, represented by the immediate past Sole Administrator of Eti-Osa Local Government, Princess Abiodun Elegushi, said the legacy of the indigenous Brazilian community in Lagos is a lasting and laudable one, noting that Lagos State and the Lagos Central Senatorial District were proud to be home to the popular Brazilian Quarters or ‘Popo Aguda’ with which the members of the Brazilian Descendants Union are historically and culturally associated.
According to her, there are many fascinating stories about the return to Nigeria of the wonderful people who populated the Brazilain Quarters of Campos, Tokunbo and Igbosere in Lagos Island. “The contributions of the members of the Brazilian Quarters to the culture, cosine and fashion of Lagos cannot be over-emphasised.”
She noted that increase in population and modern infrastructural development has ensured a change in the outlook of the area. “Still, the families in the quarters have kept their traditions alive; maintain the Brazilian architecture, passing down property and customs for more generation to the next.”
She urged non-governmental organisations and private entities to contribute to the growth and development to shared existence. “We must be determined to increase our engagement with the government and other social organisations to improve the physical, mental and social health of our community with the aim of bequeathing a better society to future generations.”
Consul-General of Brazil Flaviour Bonzanini said corruption was one of the social vices in the country, noting that it has some associated manifestations, including drug abuse, thuggery, cultism, inordinate ambition, sexual abuse and examination malpractice.
According to him, these vices are common among the youths; “the youths need directions in which to go and follow their dreams, they need role models and they need to close the generation differences. They need to keep away from social vices that could prevent them from realising a bright future.”
He advised that whatever factors have led to the social vices must be wisely handled in the spirit of development, social inclusion, community actualisation and long term collective future projects.
“Statistics are important in keeping to a focused strategy of eliminating or completely reducing the adverse effects of social vices on the lives of the members of the community because these face challenges continuously in meeting their various kinds of needs.
He described the lecture as important, noting that it preserves the Brazilian culture in Lagos. “The Brazilian people and government are proud to have
descendants in Nigeria that preserves the Brazilian culture and values, and we will support the community to preserves those values.” He said
Prof Abolade Adeniji form the department of History and International Studies, Lagos State University (LASU), said the Brazilian descendant must appreciate their history and heritage.
He identified the social vices in our society as corruption, both political corruption and non-political; kidnapping, adoption, rape and 419.
“No society where these vices are rampant can progress. The solution to these vices is moral, regeneration and it concerns all of us, including, parents, teachers, community leaders, religious leaders and government.
He stressed that unemployment is not an excuse for hooliganism, cultism, prostitution, abduction, kidnapping and other nefarious activates.
“The society, especially the youths must regain and strengthen its moral fibre. Parents, teachers, religious leaders and elders must rededicate themselves to the cause of returning our lost values. We all hold it a responsibility to hold our heads high and resist the temptation for serious unbecoming of our great heritage,” he added.
Heritage Bank Plc has partnered with Yibo Koko in association with Bolanle Austen – Peters Productions to showcase some of Nigerian cultures to the world through presentation of a dance drama known as Seki in Lagos.
The event, which held at the popular Terra Kulture Arena, was graced by members of the diplomatic corps, bank officials and lovers of arts.
It featured notable celebrities like Hilda Dokubo, Monalisa Chinda Coker, Ibinabo Fiberisima, Julius Agwu, Ovunda Ihunwo, Peace Christian, Deborah Job, Opereke Jamabo Foh and Mercy Albert among others as casts.
Speaking on Heritage Bank’s involvement in the project, the bank’s MD/CEO, Ifie Sekibo, said, “Heritage Bank is doing this to preserve the culture of our people; the wealth of the people is in our culture. Heritage is what makes us who we are. So, it is that heritage we are preserving so that we can transfer it from generation to generation.
“We know this is entertainment industry and is a very big industry out there and there are so many ways we can capture the essence of who we are, our tradition, our values and this is what they are conveying through this dance drama.”
Seki, which is created and directed by Yibo Koko, a notable film maker, is a pantomimic dance drama, which traces the America tap dance to the indigenous people of the lower Niger Delta area of Nigeria and it is fused with cultural heritage.
On what inspired the dance drama, Koko, who used to be the head of production of African Magic with Multichoice, said the idea “is to start our own thing without necessarily relying on the white race for the interpretation of our culture.”
He said Seki, “is to show how rich we are as a people, how we can embrace our culture that it is not fetish but is colourful, beautiful and wonderful and something we can sell to the world.”
On why it was performed in Lagos, the director said, “It is to showcase what we have at first to a large audience so that they will not always associate the Niger Delta region with militancy. There are lots of positive things for them to come and witness in the region.”
Seki, the dance drama which was originally created in 1998 as, Owu-Amaputi, was an official entry to the 10th anniversary of the National Black Arts Festival in Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America.
“It is a collaborative rhythmic agreement of dance patterns of different ceremonial dance groups predominantly from the Okrika, Kalabari, Bonny and Ikwerre ethnic groups in the lower Niger Delta Area of Rivers State, Nigeria,” Koko said.
The dance groups include Owembe Dancers, Pioru/Ogwein Dancers, Ojongowu Dancers and Ikule Pamba Owu Dancers.
The National Coordinator of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), Otunba Gani Adams has advised African traditional rulers to intensify the propagation of the rich cultural heritage, values and traditions of the black race.
Adams said for Africa to succeed and maintain its rightful position in the world, premium must be placed on her distinct values, customs and traditions that distinguished them from other races in the world.
He gave the advice at the Ataoja’s Palace in Osogbo while receiving traditional chieftaincy title of Agba Akin of Osogbo land from the traditional ruler, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun.
ýAdams, who described Africans as the most blessed race in the world, said unless efforts are made towards harnessing the continent’s socio-economic and cultural endowments, her position would be difficult to identify and reckon with.
ýThe OPC National Coordinator, who called on traditional rulers and other custodians of African cultures and traditions to defend the continent’s God-given potential, said no effort must be spared at raising the bar of African traditional endowments for the betterment of all.ý
ýHe bemoaned the manner at which some people desecrate traditional institutions, noting that “unless we value our endowments and give them priority attention, it would not be valued by others”.ý
ýThe Agba Akin of Osogbo land said it behoves on every black man to regard his culture and tradition as sacred that shouldn’t be allowed to be either desecrated or fade away by worldly frivolities. ý
He said: “It is disheartening that our culture, tradition and values are gradually going into extinction. This has not only posed a threat to our national and international lives but also defaced our identity as a black race. ý
ý”We must begin to do the necessary things to reposition our continent as the richest race with the most valued ýcultures and traditions in the world.
“Our people, particularly the traditional rulers, must see the need to revamp the decadence in the system and place us above other races as regards socio-cultural heritage and values.
“Africans are known for distinct values and virtues, thus we must all maintain the standard by being conscious of what define us as a people with valued culture, heritage and traditions. ý
ý”All hands must be on deck to rejuvenate, develop and promote anything that will further enrich us in our collective values as a people and continent.
“So, for no reason should Africans, particularly the Yoruba, mortgage their culture, tradition and heritage.”ý
ýAdams, who described the ancient town of Osogbo as one of the most oriented communities in Africa, said the town has made a landmark in the history that conjoined Africans as a race.ý
ýSpeaking on the hardship posed by economic recession being experience by Nigerians, he lent his voice to the clamour to restructure Nigeria, saying the move remains the best alternative for genuine development.ý
The OPC National Coordinator, who advocated immediate restructuring of Nigeria along regional lines to enhance the development of the country and rescue her from imminent crash, suggested the adoption of mutual understanding and compromise to make Nigeria workable.
Adams, who assured Yoruba of adequate quality and efficient representation as being demonstrated by the organisation in its effort to provide security, said the OPC, in collaboration with other security agencies, had performed well by flushing the dreaded Badoo cultist group out of Lagos.
ýEarlier, the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Adetunji Olanipekun said decision to confer such revered chieftaincy title on Adams was in recognition of his tremendous contributions to the growth and development of Osogbo, Yoruba land, Nigeria and Africa.
Ataoja, who described Adams as a symbol of Yoruba and African culture, said his position as the leader of OPC has been used to attract respect for Africans, particularly the Yoruba.
“We don’t just confer titles on people if such beneficiaries cannot justify such titles. As par Gani Adams, he is eminently qualified for it. That is why we deemed it fit to bestow on him, the AgbaAkin of Osogbo land.
“To us, this title is historic and valued in Osogbo and Yoruba nation and we believe strongly that it will not only encourage him to do more in impacting on the lives of the people but will also help in strengthening our cultural heritage as his new title is a round peg in a round hole”, Ataoja said.
The Chairman, Post -Primary School Management Board (PPSMB), Enugu State, Mr. Nestor Ezeme has called on Igbo students to embrace their cultural heritage, adding that they should not allow their culture to die.
He made the call at the Model Secondary School, Nsukka, during the grand finale of the school’s Cultural Week.
According to him, the Igbo tradition is anchored on truth and respect. He added that the tradition abhors impunity and vices, such as examination malpractices.
The chairman, who was represented by the Director, Education Services Mr. Obiora Owube, extolled the principal of the school, Ichie Emmanuel Ezugorie, for initiating the cultural activities, saying it would instil consciousness in the pupils and salvage the dwindling language and custom of the people.
He expressed satisfaction with the cultural displays by the pupils, saying they were in line with the Igbo tradition. He urged the principal to sustain the cultural week.
“I am happy with what is happening in this school. I am happy that the Principal, Ichie Emma Ezugorie, initiated these cultural activities and has set an example for others to emulate. It is believed that the pupils will understand the rationale behind this initiative and embrace it.
‘’I, therefore, urge the pupils of Model Secondary School to be models and live within the motto of the school, which is to “Show the light always”, he said.
Ezeme, a lawyer, used the opportunity to announce that schools in the state have adequate teachers to boost the academic excellence of the pupils, attributing this to the deployment of teachers by the Federal Government through N-Power programme.
He charged the pupils of the school to make use of this opportunity and increase their academic performance.
The Chief Supervising Principal (CSP) in Nsukka Educational Zone, Mrs. Monica Agu, noted that her office was elated when the school paid her a courtesy visit on Valentine’s Day as part of the cultural activities.
Mrs. Agu appealed to the school authorities to set aside every February 14 as the cultural week of the school.
A former Chairman of Nsukka Local Government Area, Tony Okechi Ugwu, observed that the cultural heritage of Igbo was gradually giving way for foreign culture and blamed the trend on non-inclusion of Igbo as a subject in schools curriculum. He noted that people without culture were like people without identity. He appealed to the President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo and other concerned people of Igbo extraction to ensure that Igbo culture and tradition do not die. He praised the principal of the school for taking the step to organise the cultural event.
Mr. Ichie Ezugorie in a paper titled: Let’s bring back our culture, said the idea of cultural week in the school was predicated on the fact that foreign cultures were fast threatening the Igbo culture to the extent that about 20 per cent of people who bear Igbo names and of Igbo origin are unable to speak the language, adding that as a responsive institution where young minds were being nurtured and where cultures were being transmitted, they decided to organise a cultural fiesta to educate and sensitise their pupils on the values and virtues inherent in their indigenous culture and the need to preserve them.
Nigeria is endowed with a rich cultural heritage, which if properly harnessed, could translate into rewarding and dependable socio-economic gains. However, such gains may not be actualised without a properly coordinated inter-sectoral collaboration, most especially from the private sector, and a coordinated concentration from the central administration.
Investing in tourism development is a necessity that arises from Nigeria’s over dependence on crude oil exportation, which has over the years conditioned its short falls into indices of corruption, poverty, squander and other related economic and social ills.
Tourism and promotion of national cultural heritage, therefore, present as ready alternatives to the oil dependent economy. The duo stand the chance to put Nigeria on the global map of rapid socio-economic growth and development, while enabling it achieve its vision as one of the future’s largest economies. This could be fulfilled through the bigger scope of the present administration’s working agenda, which is beginning to unfold.
Oftentimes, projected earnings from tourism tend to be given more publicity and concentration than the core product, which is the conservation and promotion of National cultural heritage. The latter requires developing and preserving cultural heritage products which possess the capacity to impact positively on our national wealth.
All over the world, countries that emerged tourism-friendly and top destinations have considered promotion and conservation of their national heritage as an upstream investment into tourism to enable consumers who are ready and prepared, pay high prices to see, study, learn and enjoy indigenous culture, festivals, cuisines, architecture and related by-products different from their own.
These set of tourists get into a preferred destination and put their resources into the purchase of cultural products like artworks and crafts. They show tremendous interest in how these products are made and how they have become certain marks of national identities for the people that produce them.
Nigeria has so much to offer in this regard and remains a fallow land to be explored. Products abound as a result of our cultural diversity which is second to none on the continent. It is expected that palaces, galleries, traditional shrines, traditional architecture, cultural products, indigenous herbs and our countless festivals should form the core of our country’s offerings to the world. The areas of demand, on the other hand, should focus on developing service-oriented facilities, such as roads, transportation, hotels, parks and gardens, electricity, health facilities and reliable security and among others, to establish a nexus between tourism and sustained economic development.
It is high time that our government took a good look at tourism, its products and the capacity it provides to get us unto level grounds. Many countries have treaded this path with tremendous successes recorded. Ours cannot be different. And if this administration pays key attention to the sector, its efforts would not be in vain.
•Yekeen is with the National Museum, Ile-Ife, Osun State.
The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, says the Federal Government will collaborate with Bauchi State to resuscitate Durbar Festival and other cultural heritage in the state.
Mohammed Made this known when Gov. Mohammed Abubakar, paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja on Wednesday.
He noted that Durbar was unique not only for its pageantry and colours but for its exclusivity to Nigeria.
The minister said he was already talking to United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) for a global recognition of durbar.
He recalled that he attended a book launch on durbar recently in Paris where the festival was celebrated and rated high.
The minister noted the Dubar would take a centre stage in the agenda of his ministry to reposition the tourism sector and harness it for economic development.
Mohammed, who noted that the Yankari Games Reserve had been handed over to the state, commended the efforts of the governor at developing the tourist site and tourism in general.
He discloses that the ministry would commence its nationwide tour of tourism sites with Bauchi state.
The minister also said that his ministry would collaborate with the state in restrategising information and communication.
Earlier, the governor commended the efforts of the minister in the management of the of the Federal Government information apparatus.
He said the minister “is a trailblaizer” who had demonstrated his skills and ability as the spokesperson of the All Progressives Congress.
The governor solicited the assistance of the minister in rejigging the information machinery of his state.
