The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Information and Culture, Dr. Ifeoma Anyanwutaku, in celebration of the World Culture Day scheduled for 27th May, 2021, said that culture is an instrument for peace, unity, development and economic growth. She made this statement in Abuja on Wednesday, 26th May, 2021 at the Sensitization and Awareness Road Walk organized by the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture in collaboration with the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural (UNESCO) office in Nigeria and the Ministry’s agencies, as part of activities to mark the 2021 World Cultural Day.
Dr. Anyanwutaku, in line with the theme of the celebration, which is: “Cultural Diversity in the Covid-19 Era” explained that the COVID-19 pandemic has taken a siege on most aspects of personal lives and affected all sectors of the Nigerian economy. The sector mostly affected being the culture and tourism sector. However, in spite of the adverse situation occasioned by the pandemic, the country has used the situation to its advantage of ensuring unity, integration and togetherness, with culture as the unifying factor.
She further stated that since culture is an instrument of peace and unity, the cultural diversity of the country has been more of an instrument of blessing than a source of division.
The Permanent Secretary stated that the composition of the National troupe of Nigeria and its activities, cultural festivals, dances, drama and attires, etc, as veritable instruments used in depicting the culture of the country, adding that through performances and show of the rich culture of various regions and states of the country by government agencies in the culture sector, there is a favorable projection of the image of the country.
In addition, was the mention of Nollywood and its efforts at promoting our cultural values within the country and to the international community, as well as helping to generate foreign exchange to shore up the economic growth of the country.
The Permanent Secretary appreciated everyone for coming for the sensitization and awareness road walk which she officially flagged-off with the cutting of the ribbon. She was joined by staff of the Ministry and other stakeholders on the road walk from Radio House, through Areas 7, 8, 10, Garki and Herbert Macaulay way.
The World Culture Day celebration continues with a cultural event at the National Press Centre on 27th May, 2021.
Deborah Ikhidero
SIO (IT)
