By: Mercy Peter
Katsina State Governor, Dr. Dikko Umar Radda, has thrown its weight behind the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy.
Radda made the pledge during a visit to Minister Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa in Abuja.
The Governor, according to a statement by the media aide to the Minister, Dr. Nneka Ikem-Anibeze hailed the works of the ministry in areas of culture and artifacts preservation.
He stressed that Nigeria has a rich cultural heritage and a lot to offer globally in art and culture.
He therefore pledged to support the Ministry’s laudable initiatives, which he said, are achievable.
Governor Radda highlighted Katsina State’s efforts in preserving its heritage sites, including the renovation of the Gobarau Minerate for N100m and a contract award of over N640m for the National Museum in Katsina.
He stated that the Museum is currently in a dilapidated state, and the state government aims to give it a facelift.
“We are proud of you and willing to support your initiatives, which are achievable. There are a lot of potentials in this ministry, and a lot to showcase to the world. You have a lot of initiatives, and we will be here to support you and your ministry to succeed,” Governor Radda stated.
He emphasized the need to preserve Nigeria’s cultural heritage and monuments to boost the country’s image and export its culture globally. “Nigeria has very rich cultural heritages, but we don’t have what it takes to showcase them. Previous governments did not tap into the economic expansion of these heritage sites.”
The Governor also highlighted the massive potential of the creative industry in Nigeria, noting the abundance of young talents. However, he acknowledged the lack of amenities to utilize and showcase their talents.
In response, Minister Musawa stated that her priority is to ensure the diversification of the economy and explore the vast resources in the tourism industry.
“We hope to have an economic breakthrough in tourism because the income generation in tourism is so huge and yet untapped and uncultivated. We want to build on our heritage and traditions and those beautiful artifacts and cultures that we have to boost domestic tourism,” Minister Musawa said.
The Minister also emphasized the importance of supporting young talents, creating jobs, and stimulating economic expansion through the creative industry.
The Governor’s delegation included the Chief of Staff, Alhaji Abdulkadir Nasir; the Principal Private Secretary to the Governor, Hon Abdullahi A. Turaji; the State Commissioner for Health, Hon. Musa Adamu Funtua; the Commissioner for Lands and Physical Planning, Dr Faisal Umar Kaita; the Technical Assistant to the Governor, Dr Babangida Rimi; and the Director Innercore consultant on Culture, Musa Umar Yar’adua.
