By Victor Ayoo
Benue State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr Matthew Abo has acknowledged contributions of individuals and groups to the development of entertainment industry in the state.
Mr Abo, who made the acknowledgement recently when Takuruku Entertainment Creative Group hosted him in Makurdi said, aside entertainment, the groups have created job opportunities for the teeming youths, thereby contributing to economic growth of the state.
He expressed the ministry’s willingness to partner groups with creative abilities to project the state positively to the outside world.
The information Commissioner expressed appreciation to the group for the honour and urged them to forward their challenges to the ministry for onward presentation to the governor for necessary action.
In their separate remarks, the National president of Benue State University Alumni Association, Comrade Lawrence Vihimga, a culture enthusiast, Mr. Tahav Agerzua, Sonter Shinyo and Doctor Titus Varvar of Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi all said the choice of Mr Abo as Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism was not a mistake as manifested in his handling of cultural affairs and the reward for creative ideas that would be of benefit to the state.
Earlier, the founder, Takuruku Entertainment Creative Group, Mr. Stephen Tyozua said the event was organised to mark sixty-third Independence of Nigeria with the commissioner, however, he was in captivity hence the rescheduled date to celebrate him for his safe return from kidnappers.
Mr. Tyozua highlighted the group’s major challenges including lack of conducive performance arena for rehearsals as well as inadequate funding for its operations and appealed for government’s assistance.
The group presented certificate to Mr Abo for honouring the invitation while performing artists thrilled the gathering with cultural dances like Tsuwe-Tsele, Mami-Water and Swange during the event.
