Katsina: The Federal Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Katsina State to harness its unique cultural monuments, including the Gobarau Minaret and Kusugu Well, to promote domestic tourism. Speaking during the signing ceremony, the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Hannatu Musawa, emphasized that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the partnership aims to build proper structures to enhance Nigeria’s cultural identity, revitalizing its cultural heritage and boosting domestic tourism. Musawa highlighted the importance of prioritizing cultural identities, values, and heritage. She remarked that Katsina’s unique monuments and cultural assets could serve as tourist attractions while empowering youth and fostering economic growth.
The minister underscored Katsina’s historical significance, noting its critical role in narrating Nigeria’s story. She identified the Gobarau Minaret and Kusugu Well as key assets in the government’s plan to promote domestic tourism and create a global hub for creativity and innovation. The initiative focuses on celebrating each state’s uniqueness and transforming it into economic opportunities. It also aims to create platforms for youth engagement, particularly for content creators and cultural entrepreneurs, allowing them to explore and showcase their talents while contributing to national development.
Musawa mentioned that the inspection of historical monuments in Daura and Katsina is targeted at renovating them and considering them for recommendation as UNESCO Heritage Sites. Responding on behalf of the Katsina State Government, the Commissioner for Rural and Social Development, Prof. Abdulhamid Ahmed, expressed appreciation for the Federal Government’s commitment, stating that the initiative has the potential to transform Katsina into a key destination for domestic tourism.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the minister visited the Emir of Daura, Faruk Umar Faruk-Umar, and toured historical sites such as the Kusugu Well, Durbi Takusheyi, and Gobarau Minaret. Other notable monuments in the state were also part of her visit. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)