Yobe Holds Cultural Summit To Promote Social Cohesion
By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu
The Yobe State Government, in collaboration with ActionAid International, World Food Programme, and German Cooperation, has held a cultural summit to showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage.
The summit was also to bring together the diverse people of the state to foster peace and social cohesion.
In her remarks, the Executive Director, Yobe State Council for Arts and Culture, Hajiya Husna Ibrahim said that the summit was also to highlight the importance of culture to societal development.
“We are here to showcase our cultural heritage and other artifacts.
“This is to tell the world that you cannot have any development without knowing your root, your identity, and your culture,” she said.
Husna expressed gratitude to ActionAid International and other partners for their support in promoting unity and oneness in the state through cultural activities.
In a remark, ActionAid Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, stressed the need for peace and social cohesion in the North East region, which has been affected by insurgency.
Represented by Mr Kenneth Unuafe, the ActionAid Project Manager in Yobe, Andrew said that the cultural summit was an ideal platform to spread the message of peace and draw people together through their shared cultural heritage.
Brigadier General Dahiru Abdulsalam (rtd), the Special Assistant to Governor Mai Mala Buni on Security Matters, underscored the significance of culture in the society, and expressed concern over the erosion of traditional values due to Western influences.
He urged the people to embrace their cultural identity and avoid blind copying of foreign customs.
The Syndicate reports that the summit featured variety of cultural displays, including traditional dances and music.
