The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, expressed support at the recent unveiling of a global cultural digital platform, called “DuduPlugs”, designed to engage young Nigerians by providing a unique opportunity for them to reignite their interest in Nigeria’s cultural heritage, where entrepreneurs could showcase their cultural businesses in the global market.
According to a statement signed by the Media Assistant to the Executive Secretary, National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), Caleb Nor, yesterday, Akume was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Affairs Office in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Dr Emanso Umobong.
Akume disclosed that the project was in line with the Tinubu-led administration’s vision to drive economic growth through the creative industries.
“This initiative is more than just a celebration of our diversity; it is a strategic move to deepen our cultural diplomacy. By presenting ourselves and our culture to the global community, we are opening doors to new opportunities, fostering collaboration and promoting cross-cultural understanding,” he stated.
In his speech, the Minister for Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs Ibiene Roberts, said the platform would serve as a vaulting voyage to further expand our reach to the global audience.
He said: “DuduPlugs stands as a testament to our vibrant cultural landscape. Our music, fashion, arts, film, food and dance, among others, form a great part of our culture and a platform such as this can guarantee interconnectivity, standardisation and competitiveness in a way that can guarantee an appreciable revenue stream to be accrued in foreign exchange”.
Presenting his goodwill message, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commended the management of NICO for the foresight to collaborate with a foreign partner to create a social media platform that would showcase Nigeria’s culture.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary/CEO of NICO, Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, said as a digital repository of Nigeria’s cultural practices and traditions, DuduPlugs would provide the opportunity for users to explore, share, and celebrate nine distinct cultural categories: Music, fashion, art, film, food, dance, green/artistic building, technology, language and literature, using technology as an enabler.
According to him, the combination of social connectivity aims to promote and preserve Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage to pass it down to younger generations; attract global acceptance and accessibility; attract foreign exchange earnings and evoke appreciation of the Nigerian culture, thereby strengthening its economy and international image.
