Niger state government says sustaining cultural values remain a vital tool for promoting peace, unity and social harmony in the society.
Secretary to the State Government Ahmed Ibrahim Matane , stated this at the 2022 Wawa Annual Gani Cultural Festival held at the Palace of Dodo in Wawa, Borgu local government area of the State.
The Secretary who spoke through the Director of Finance SSG’s Office, Alhaji Abdullahi Wasagi said no society can achieve meaningful development in the absence of unity, security and peaceful co-existence, hence the need for people to always propagate the values and virtues of their rich cultural heritage.
This he said include good neighbourliness, tolerance, accommodation, hospitality and love for one another.
Ahmed Ibrahim Matane who commended Governor Abubakar Sani Bello for providing purposeful leadership , further explained that government has accorded tremendous support to traditional institutions in the state particularly, the current cultural revolution through annual durbar and festivals.
According to him, government also acknowledges the role of culture as a driver of economic diversification and social integration.
In his remarks, the Dodo of Wawa, Dr Mahmud Ahmed Aliyu maintained that culture played a critical role in promoting sustainable development in society.
Alhaji Ahmed Aliyu pointed out that the Gani festival which unites the people of the area also showcases the rich cultural heritage and artifacts for the people to take advantage of, for job creation and economic emancipation.
The Senator representing Niger North, Senator Abdullahi Sabi Aliyu, representative of Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar and the Commandant of the 221 Tank Battalion were among the dignitaries who added colour to the festival.
Highlights of the occasion included the display of cultural performances and the presentation of awards among several others.
Aliyu Lawal