The Special Assistant to the Governor of Abia State on Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mrs Matilda Anyamele has identified culture as key to fostering unity and progress in any society.
Speaking at the Umuocham Primary School Aba during the Ngwa Day celebration, Mrs Anyamele while emphasizing the importance the present administration in the state under Governor Alex Otti attaches to creative economy, commended the Ngwa people for their resilience in preserving their cultural heritage through the ages.
“Our culture is not just a reflection of who we are but a powerful tool that can shape our future,” she said.
The Special Assistant to the Governor stressed the need for the people to invest in their traditional crafts, music, and festivals to generate employment and attract tourism, while calling for an integrated approach that would position Abia as a leading state in the creative economy of Nigeria.
“The arts and creative industries are the bedrock of sustainable economic development,” she noted.
She further enumerated some of the laudable initiatives of the present administration in the state aimed at enhancing the visibility of Abia’s cultural assets to include the establishment of creative hubs, support for local artisans, and collaborations with national and international organizations to promote the Ngwa culture globally.
According to her, these efforts would not only preserve tradition but also create pathways for young people to thrive in the arts and culture sectors.
