In a significant push to promote Nigeria’s cultural heritage and drive economic growth through tourism, President Bola Tinubu has issued a directive for the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to amplify efforts in developing arts, culture, and tourism in Abuja. This move underscores the administration’s commitment to leveraging cultural assets as a means to foster unity and stimulate economic opportunities within the nation’s capital.
The directive was announced by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, during the 2024 Abuja Festival of Arts and Culture (ASOFEST). ASOFEST, an annual cultural event, brings together various ethnic groups in the FCT to celebrate and showcase their rich traditions, fostering a spirit of harmony and peaceful coexistence.
Representing Minister Wike at the festival’s opening ceremony, Ibrahim Aminu, Mandate Secretary of the Social Development Secretariat (SDS), emphasized the administration’s dedication to cultural development. “President Tinubu has given me specific instructions to develop, grow, and nurture the arts, culture, and tourism hubs in the FCT,” Aminu stated. This directive aligns with the administration’s broader strategy to invigorate the economy and create sustainable opportunities for citizens.
Wike highlighted that the administration’s support would extend to initiatives that position Nigeria’s cultural heritage on a global stage. By tapping into these resources, the FCTA aims to generate employment opportunities, especially for youth and women, through skill acquisition programs and cultural showcases.
“This festival creates a viable platform for skill acquisition and transfer, as well as opportunities for youth and women to gain employment,” Wike said. He added that such cultural festivals play a crucial role in building a cohesive society while contributing positively to economic development.
The FCT administration plans to maintain a packed calendar of cultural events throughout the year, allowing residents and visitors alike to experience and appreciate Nigeria’s diverse cultural expressions. This initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s vision to create a thriving arts and tourism sector that not only enriches the social fabric of the FCT but also contributes meaningfully to national growth.
