TOPSHOT - Two Tanzanian miners look for gold grains at an open-pit gold mine in Nyarugusu, Geita Region, Tanzania on May 27, 2022. - Tanzania is a land rich in minerals and one of the main gold producers in Africa, with gold representing more than 90% of the country's mineral exports. Artisanal and small-scale gold mining have culturally and historically relegated women's participation. The extractive sector in Tanzania has historically been a male-dominated industry with high levels of harassment, sexual abuse, discrimination and misconceptions over women's involvement, and contributions following traditional beliefs. A a result women face economic challenges due to lack of access to the land. Through the creation only-women miners associations and the help of projects advocating for rights and inclusion in the extractive industry such as the Collective Action For Rights Realisation In Extractives Industry (CLARITY), Tanzanian women in Geita region have been gradually gaining access to the mines while being able to benefit from the sector. (Photo by LUIS TATO / AFP) (Photo by LUIS TATO/AFP via Getty Images)

Minister Pledges To Promote Nigeria’s Diverse Cultural Heritage

Last updated Jun 20, 2024

The Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has pledged to promote Nigeria’s diverse heritage in a bid to sustain the culture of the people.

This is contained in a statement issued by her Special Assistant on Sub-National Engagement and Partnership, Mr Abiola Abdulkreem, in Abuja on Thursday.

The minsiter’s promise was made at the 2024 Emirate Durbar in Ilorin and other parts of the country after the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

Abdulkareem quoted Musawa as saying that her commitment underscored the ministry’s dedication to fostering critical partnerships at both the national and grassroots levels to celebrate and elevate the country’s diverse heritage.

“I will continue to support and partner players both at the national and grassroot levels to fashion our new ways to promote and celebrate the beauty of our diverse heritage,” she said.

Musawa emphasised the importance of the Emirate Durbar, not only as a cultural event but as a vital symbol of Nigeria’s historical and social unity.

She said that the durbar, renowned for its vibrant display of horse-riding regalia, traditional music, and dance, served as a powerful reminder of the nation’s rich and diverse cultural history.

“The Emirate Durbar in Ilorin is a cornerstone of our cultural heritage.

“Our ministry is committed to ensuring that such events receive the recognition and support they deserve.

“We believe that by partnering with local and national stakeholders, we can create new avenues to showcase the beauty of our traditions and bring them to the forefront of national consciousness,” she said.

Musawa said that the pledge was part of a broader initiative by the ministry to integrate cultural heritage into the national development agenda.

According to her, by supporting traditional events like the emirate durbar, the ministry aims to foster unity, national pride, and cultural awareness among Nigerians.

She said that the initiative would boost the local economy by attracting tourism and providing opportunities for local artisans and performers.

Musawa highlighted the ministry’s strategic plan to collaborate with state governments, traditional leaders, and cultural organizations to create sustainable frameworks for cultural preservation and promotion.

According to her, the plan includes capacity-building programmes, financial support for cultural events, and the development of cultural infrastructure across the country.

“Promoting our cultural heritage is not just about preserving the past; it’s about creating a vibrant future where our traditions can thrive and inspire future generations.

“The Emirate Durbar is a testament to our rich cultural diversity, and we are committed to making it a landmark event on both the national and international stage,” Musawa added.

She promised to promote cultural celebrations in Nigeria, where the beauty and diversity of the nation’s heritage will be honored and cherished.

She stated that through these efforts, the ministry would position itself as a strong player in the cultural sector, dedicated to nurturing and promoting Nigeria’s rich heritage.

She added that the commitment would not only help to celebrate the past but also paved way for a culturally enriched future in the country.

She commended the organisers for a great job and the wonderful hospitality experienced at the event.

NAN/Oyenike Oyeniyi