Nigerian minister speaks on Culture as a Tool against Insecurity

Culture is a critical tool in promoting national unity and security in a cultural diverse society, culture can be effectively deployed to initiate concrete platforms that foster effective dialogue, geared towards creating mutual understanding among people and communities.

The Minister of Information and Culture Alhaji Lai Mohammed stated this in Abuja, Nigeria to commemorate World Day for Cultural Diversity Dialogue and development.

The Information Minister added that without security no nation can make any significant progress or achieved holistic growth and development.

Alhaji Lai Mohammed reiterates that culture also provides alternative dispute resolution channels by allowing parties to resolve issues amicably.

‘’Cross section interaction allows people of different ethnicities to understand each other better, establish mutual respect and friendship across ethno religious lines.

This ultimately will engender peaceful coexistence, thus promoting national unity as well as ensuring security for the citizenry’’ he said .

‘’It is our collective responsibility to ensure a united, secure safe and prosperous country by imbibing and propagating the tenets of our culture’’, he added.

The  Ekiti State Commissioner for Arts Culture and Tourism Professor Rasike Bakare described culture as a soft power  that helps to develop relationships with communities.

‘’Culture is soft power that help to develop relationships intends to foster unity and love’’.

World Day for Cultural Diversity Dialogue and Development is a day set aside to show case the creative potential of the world’s diverse cultures and engaging in continuous dialogue to ensure that all members of society benefit from sustainable development.

Cultural diversity is a driving force for development, not only with respect to economic growth, but also as a means of leading a more fulfilling intellectual, emotional, moral and spiritual life of individuals.

Nigeria is not left behind in commemorating the day in a grand style, by showcasing diverse cultures in Nigeria in a colorful style through dressing, music, and   Artistic work.

Celebrated every year on 21 May, United Nations Educational Scientific  and Cultural Organization ,UNESCO, leads the celebration of World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development highlighting not only the richness of the world’s cultures, but also the essential role of intercultural dialogue for achieving peace and sustainable development