World Culture Day: Culture officers advocate for peaceful coexistence 

Culture officers within the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy have emphasised the pivotal role of culture in fostering social cohesion and promoting economic development.

According to them, a vibrant cultural landscape can unite diverse communities, enhance social interaction, and build mutual understanding among citizens.

They also noted that investing in culture, arts and heritage not only strengthens national identity but also stimulates local economies by creating jobs, attracting tourism, and encouraging innovation within creative industries.

They lauded the great strides the Nigerian entertainment industry has achieved globally and the need for strategic policies that prioritize cultural initiatives as essential components of national development.

This call was made on Wednesday at the 2024 commemoration of World Cultural Day and World Heritage Day held at the Chinese Cultural Centre, Abuja.

In his opening address, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Mr. Obi Raphael, emphasized the critical role cultural differences play in conflict.

He highlighted that a significant percentage of societal discord is rooted in misunderstandings stemming from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Mr Raphael stated that there is a pressing need to promote cultural tolerance and appreciation among various groups to mitigate these conflicts.

He stressed that cultural diversity should be leveraged as an advantage rather than a source of division and strife.

In his words: “Culture is an essential driving force for social cohesion and economic growth. It is an invaluable asset in our fight against poverty and is integral for achieving sustainable development goals. We must recognize that our diversity ought to be viewed as our strength and unity, rather than as a weakness that leads to disunity.”

Speaking at the event, the Director of Entertainment and Creative Economy, Mrs Ugochi Nwakaego Akudo, accentuated the remarkable impact of the creative industry on Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

She referred to this burgeoning sector as the ‘new oil well’ underlining its significance in the nation’s economy.

Mrs Akudo commended the entertainment industry, particularly noting the extraordinary global footprint of the Nigerian music industry, which has gained immense popularity globally.

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“These sectors play a substantial role in job creation and wealth generation. Our soft power diplomacy is exemplified through the international acclaim of Nigerian music and films. If you travel around the world today, it’s Nigerian music that is often dominating the airwaves. This is the essence of the soft power diplomacy we are referencing; it fosters not only cultural exchange but also aids in social cohesion, integration, and mass mobilization of our populace,” she said.

Also, the Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Cultural Centre, Yang Jianxing, expressed China’s commitment to nurturing cultural exchange with Nigeria.

He revealed that his recent meeting with the Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, was a strategic move aimed at strengthening the long-standing cultural ties that exist between China and Nigeria and enhancing further cultural diplomacy and mutual understanding between nations.