From Rashidat AbdulRahman, Minna
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG) of Niger, Ahmed Matane has said sustaining cultural values remain a vital tool for promoting peace, unity and social harmony in society.
Matane disclosed this on Sunday at the 2022 Wawa Annual Gani Cultural Festival, held at the Palace of Dodo in Wawa, Borgu Local Government Area of the State.
The SSG, who spoke through the Director of Finance, SSG’s Office, Alhaji Abdullahi Wasagi, disclosed that 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 which include good neighbourliness, tolerance, accommodation, hospitality and showing love to one another.
Matane described the present administration, under the leadership of Governor Abubakar Bello as a promoter of various cultural development initiatives, in line with the universal principles of culture often described as a way of life that has attendant implications for the general welfare and peaceful co-existence of the people.
The SSG 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 the SSG, “government also acknowledges the role of culture as a driver of economic diversification and social integration.”
He then commended the organizers of the festival for the wonderful job they exhibited, stressing that they should always see culture as the bedrock for peaceful co-existence, unity and sustainable development of society.
In his remark, the Dodo of Wawa, Alhaji Mahmud Aliyu drew attention to the critical role of culture in promoting sustainable development in society.
Alhaji Aliyu pointed out that 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 empowerment.
Highlights of the occasion included the display of cultural performances and the presentation of awards among several others.
