The federal government has reiterated its support for initiatives that will further empower local artisans and promote cultural tourism to create jobs for our teeming youths.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume said this at the recent unveiling of a global cultural digital platform called DuduPlugs, designed to engage young Nigerians by providing a unique opportunity for them to reignite their interest in our cultural heritage, where entrepreneurs can showcase their cultural businesses in the global market.
Represented by Dr Emanso Umobong, permanent secretary of the Cabinet Affairs Office in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Akume disclosed that the project is in line with the Tinubu administration’s vision to drive economic growth through the creative industries.
“This initiative is more than just a celebration of our diversity; it is a strategic move to deepen our Cultural Diplomacy. By presenting ourselves and our culture to the global community, we are opening doors to new opportunities, fostering collaboration, and promoting cross-cultural understanding.
“I am delighted to note that this project aligns with our government’s vision to drive economic growth through creative industries. As Secretary to the Government of the Federation, I am committed to supporting initiatives that empower local artisans, promote cultural tourism and create jobs,” he said.
Presenting his goodwill message, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga commended the Management of NICO for the foresight to collaborate with a foreign partner to create a social media platform that will showcase Nigeria’s culture.
Earlier, the executive secretary/CEO of NICO, Otunba Biodun Ajiboye said as a digital repository of Nigeria’s cultural practices and traditions, DuduPlugs will provide the opportunity for users to explore, share, and celebrate nine distinct cultural categories: Music, Fashion, Art, Film, Food, Dance, Green/Artistic Building, Technology, Language, and Literature using technology as an enabler.
According to him, this seamless combination of social connectivity aims to promote and preserve Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage with the view to pass it down to younger generations; attract global acceptance and accessibility; attract foreign exchange earnings as well as evoke appreciation of the Nigerian culture, thereby strengthening its economy and international image.
“You will agree with me that today, our nation bleeds for lack of inflow of foreign exchange and even internal production is shifting which is why we have decided to think out of the box to use culture, a hitherto forgotten sector to rescue this impending catastrophe,” he said.
Mrs Foluke Michael, who is the Project Management Executive of ACI Teksystem, disclosed that the project, which is domiciled in America, is over 80 per cent completed, and when launched, it would serve as a veritable tool for cultural diplomacy for Nigeria and create job opportunities for the teeming youths.
To her, DuduPlugs is coming at this time to reintroduce Nigeria in a positive light to let the world know that it is not just about the things they read in the news out there but there is also something positive about our nation.
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