The Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi has expressed optimism that the ongoing 34th edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture, (NAFEST) will improve the economic, cultural and creative fortunes of the state.
The Governor gave the charge on Monday while declaring open the 2021 National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) at the Ekiti Pavilion, Ado Ekiti.
He further described culture as capable of transforming the society and changing the economic narratives of the country, stating that the uniqueness of culture is an avenue for promotion of national peace, unity and cohesion among the states of the federation is obvious.
The Governor further revealed that the state government has included Ekiti state’s cultural values in the educational curriculum of primary and post primary schools across the state.
Earlier in his own speech, the Director General, National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Otunba Olusegun Runsewe expressed deep appreciation to God and the Governor of Ekiti State for displaying uncommon political will and commitment towards the hosting of the 34th edition of the festival.
Runsewe further revealed that despite the difference in the tribes, tongues, creeds and political affiliations among the citizens of the country, Nigeria has been destined to be one nation under God.
He added “NAFEST is an event staged every year to strengthen the country’s unity in diversity, foster national integration, engender patriotism and national cooperation among all citizens for national development.”
He further stated that the skills, creativity and dexterity displayed in NAFEST yearly could be explored, harnessed and developed to drive the process of economic development in Nigeria.
The ceremony witnessed cultural performance from over 15 states of the federation and contingents from the National Orientation Agency (NOA), National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti (EKSU), Federal University, Oye Ekiti (FUOYE) among others.
Packaged By Emmanuel Adeniran
