The Federal Government has reiterated its support for initiatives that will further empower local artisans and promote cultural tourism toward creating jobs for our teeming youths.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, said this 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 our cultural heritage, where entrepreneurs can 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 is 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.
“I am delighted to note that this project aligns with our government’s vision to drive economic growth through creative industries. As Secretary to the Government of the Federation, I am committed to supporting initiatives that empower local artisans, promote cultural tourism, and create jobs,” he stated.
Also speaking, the Minister for Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs. Ibiene Roberts, said the platform will 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.
“Our fashion industry, on the other hand, will also be projected through this platform in a way that can lead to the rejuvenation of our moribund textile industry.”
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 will showcase Nigeria’s culture.
He said Nigeria is a very lucky nation—a country of heterogeneity, cultural diversity, and all kinds of things—so we really have many things to show the world.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary/CEO of NICO, Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, said as a digital repository of Nigeria’s cultural practices and traditions, DuduPlugs will 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, this seamless combination of social connectivity aims to promote and preserve Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage with the view to passing it down to younger generations; attracting global acceptance and accessibility; attracting foreign exchange earnings; as well as evoking appreciation of Nigerian culture, thereby strengthening its economy and international image.
