Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has directed the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to harness and develop the arts, culture, and tourism potential of Abuja, the nation’s capital. The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike, disclosed this during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Abuja Festival of Arts and Culture (ASOFEST) in Abuja. ASOFEST is an annual festival that provides both indigenous and other ethnic groups living in the FCT with the opportunity to showcase their cultures, while also promoting unity and peaceful coexistence.
According to Voice of Nigeria, Wike, represented by the Mandate Secretary of the Social Development Secretariat (SDS), Ibrahim Aminu, stated that the current administration will give due attention to cultural heritage, particularly those that can significantly contribute to economic growth and enhance the quality of life. He revealed that his administration would support programs and initiatives aimed at promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage in g
lobal markets. Wike emphasized the festival’s role in creating opportunities for skill acquisition and transfer, as well as providing employment for youths and women.
Wike further stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given specific instructions to develop, grow, and nurture the arts, culture, and tourism sectors in the FCT. He assured that his administration would continue to support initiatives and programs aligned with the President’s directives, aiming to showcase various cultural festivities in the Federal Capital Territory. Wike also announced plans for hosting the 2024 Edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) in collaboration with the National Council of Arts and Culture (NCAC).
The Permanent Secretary of the Social Development Secretariat (SDS), Olubumi Olowookere, highlighted that the festival offers Nigerians in the FCT an opportunity to experience and appreciate diverse cultural elements. Olowookere noted that the festival serves as a platform for cultural enrichment an
d the transmission of values, contributing to the cultural landscape of the Federal Capital Territory.