The Emir of Machina, Alh. (Dr) Bashir Albishir Bukar, says it’s very important to diversify the economy from mono economy, especially the over dependence on crude oil for sustenance. He posits that crude oil will not sustain the country for long because according to him there are indices in support of diversifying the economy from over dependent on crude oil.
He made this disclosure at the 2019 Abuja Carnival Lectures. He suggests that one of the areas Nigeria needs to diversify into is the tourism industry, and cultural activities. He gave example of Brazil, India and Egypt who are now supporting their economy through tourism activities like carnivals. “If Brazil, India, Egypt can get themselves through, I think Nigeria is eager than this countries”, he says.
He calls on the Nigerian government to give full support and backing, and also on well to do individuals in the society to come and partner with the carnival group and support them in order to come up with something tangible for the country. He says that wealthy individuals can to go into sponsorship of carnivals by identifying with cultural groups in different societies. “We can even sponsor some of our youths to go international and perform”, he added.
Also at the event is Dr. Bashir Aliyu Sallau an Associate Prof. of Hausa Cultural Studies and the Executive Director, Katsina Min. of Cultural Bureau. He believes that if the diverse cultural heritages of the country are well managed they will enhance the image of the county politically, socially and emotionally. He believes there would be many participants in this year, Abuja carnival. He posits that our culture is a unifying factor that can unite us together,, to become a strong nation.
The Permanent Secretary, ministry of Information and Culture, Deaconess Grace Gekpe, has said this year’s edition of Abuja Carnival is billed for November 23 – 25, 2019.
She announced this during the event in Abuja.
She said this year’s Abuja Carnival themed: “Culture For Peace,” will provide a veritable platform to further strengthen the bond of unity of the country after the 2019 general elections.
“This year’s carnival, among other gains, will provide platform to unwind, recreate and continue the onerous task of nation-building after the peaceful 2019 general elections,” she said.
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