The Abia State Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mr. Matthew Ekwuruibe says Abia is open for partnership with International Organisations for intensive development of the State.
Mr. Ekwuruibe who stated this when he paid a visit to the Secretary General, National Commission for UNESCO, Dr. Olagunju Idowu, noted that the State is rich in Cultural heritage which before now have been under-publicized by previous administrations pointing out that the Otti’s administration is committed to the development of the sector, hence the creation of the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy.
He solicited for partnership with UNESCO in the development and preservation of the historical sites.
According to the Commissioner, a lot of talents abound in the arts sector, tourism and cultural ecosystem and creative economy and identified some historical sites in the State to include Ojukwu Bunker, Arochukwu Long Juju, Azumiri Blue River, Ibom Waterfalls among others.
Responding, the Secretary General, Natcom UNESCO, Dr. Olagunju Idowu, while expressing surprise at the cultural heritage Abia is blessed with, expressed their readiness to partner the State in ensuring that the State benefits from UNESCO.
Dr Idowu noted that though UNESCO is not a funding organ, they assist in capacity building and stressed the need for the State to do the necessary arrangements needed, assuring that they will support their efforts.
Mr. Ekwuribe was accompanied on the visit by the Special Assistant to Abia State Governor on Multilateral and Donor Agencies, Mr. Odinakachi Eme and Head of Mission UNESCO-YOD, Rivers State, Pastor Greatman Badom.
