The National Council of Arts and Culture, (NCAC) says the time is now for Nigerians to place priority on peaceful coexistence and cultural unity for the country to overcome it challenges.
The Director-General of the Council, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe stated this on Tuesday at a roundtable discussion with stakeholders in the creative sector with the theme ”Culture, Peace and National Rebirth: Agenda Setting.”
Otunba Runsewe said Nigeria has all it takes to rule the world in all sectors but lack of respect for the numerous cultures have hampered growth and strength.
He said the aim of the roundtable was to set agenda for all Nigerians and develop a progressive path to unity, love and respect for one another’s culture.
”During and after the elections, there were tension across the country for no reason. There’s time for election, swearing-in and there’s time for governance but unfortunately there is too much tension in our country. So that is why NCAC took it upon itself to set agenda for the country to put some of this ugly situations behind and focus on what unites us, what makes us stronger as a people.”
The NCAC Director-General urged Nigerians to see the country’s diversity as her strength as Africa and the world rely on the country for development.
Otunba Runsewe called on the Political class to avoid creating unnecessary tension but work together to make the nation greater.
Similarly, one of the speakers at the event, Dr David Manya Dogo said it was time the country forgot about religious extremism and embrace oneness.
The Executive Secretary of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation, (NICO), Ado Muhammad Yahuza was of the opinion that Nigerians must strive to create a conducive atmosphere for them to really enjoy the abundant resources the country is endowed with.
On his part, the Director General, NIHOTOUR, Buratai Giwa said governments at all level must strive develop all sectors of the economy to attract the attention of Nigerian youths and encourage those seeking greener pastures outside the shores of the country to return home. (RadioNigeria)
