..As Governor Sanwo-Olu unveils 37 Cultural Wonders of Nigeria, urges Nigerians to imbibe dialogue
Lagos State today emerged the overall winners of the 35th Edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) tagged “Eko NAFEST 2022”.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Festival and the Unveiling of the 37 Cultural Wonders of Nigeria, which showcases the strength in the cultural diversity and ethnicity of the country held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan-Lagos, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu urged Nigerians to always follow the path of dialogue and other non-violent approaches in resolving potential issues capable of igniting violence in the country.
The Governor who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, added that while it is almost impossible for citizens not to have differences, considering the multiplicity of culture and languages, Nigerians must always imbibe dialogue and peaceful ways in resolving issues capable of igniting violence.
Sanwo-Olu said, “While it is almost impossible not to have our differences, considering the multiplicity of our culture and languages as Nigerians, we must always follow the path of dialogue and other non-violent approach in resolving potential issues capable of igniting violence.”
Speaking further, the Governor noted that Nigerians should pay cursory attention to harnessing the difference in our culture, adding that it will assist in building consensus and bond of friendship towards genuine reconciliation that will promote the much needed unity, reduce tension and tribal conflicts in the country. He therefore appealed to all participants to continue to imbibe the good virtues learnt through NAFEST and share the lessons with their kinsmen in their respective states.
While commending the organizers of the event, the National Council for Arts and Culture for the concept of carrying school children along in the cultural event, which he described as the best way, the nation can sustain, protect and preserve her culture for posterity, Governor Sanwo-Olu urged the council to continue to engage more children in the competition, introduce them to cultural heritage and sustain the children corner of the competition so that more talents can be discovered and groomed.
He said, “It is my belief, if we take deliberate steps to put these youths on the right path through positive orientation and meaningful engagements, the rate of youth related crime and violence will gradually reduce and the whole society will be better for it.”
Earlier in his remarks, the Director-General, National Council for Arts and Culture, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe expressed appreciation to Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and the State Government for hosting the festival and the hospitality extended to all participants by the good people and government of the State in the last one week of the festival.
The Director-General added that with the hosting of the festival, the spirit of Lagos has changed the narratives and has further strengthened the unity among Nigerians. He therefore charged that there should be no more fighting among citizens but rather we need to celebrate our unity and come together to make Nigeria great.
