Minister Pledges Support For Cultural Heritage, Youth Devt

Minister of Youth Development, Mr Olawande Ayodele, has pledged to promote Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and diversity as instruments for national unity, peaceful coexistence and youth development.

Ayodele made the pledge on Saturday at the grand finale of the Ulefunta Festival in Akure, an annual celebration showcasing the cultural and traditional heritage of Akure-speaking communities in Ondo State.

The minister said cultural festivals such as Ulefunta provided opportunities for Nigerians to appreciate their diverse heritage and strengthen bonds across communities.

He described the promotion of culture and heritage as one of his priorities, stressing that young people and women would also remain central to his efforts.

“In any aspect like this, I am going to be a promoter. It is one of those things that you saw in the palace today, and it is one of those things that I have made sure is going to be my priority.

“Beyond anything, our culture, our heritage, our young people, our women and our youth are going to be my personal comfort,” he said.

Ayodele also assured young Nigerians of government’s commitment to supporting and protecting them while creating opportunities for productive engagement.

“We want to support the young people. We want to protect them. And we also want to employ them productively,” he said.

The minister, who described the people of Akure speaking communities as partners in the nation’s development, urged them to remain united and peaceful.

“My message for the people of Akure speaking communities is that we are together. We are in this together, and we are going to get there together.

“Stay calm. We are one. We are one body, and we are going to get there,” Ayodele said.

In his words, Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, said that the festival was as an important event for cultural preservation, unity, and economic growth of the entire Akure Kingdom.

Oba Aladelusi described the festival as an emerging national brand, a time for prayer and special rites for the kingdom’s progress, and a unifying platform for indigenes to come together for collective growth.

The traditional ruler said there was need to preserve the tradition with a view to attracting global recognition.The Ulefunta Festival, which brings together traditional rulers, cultural groups, indigenes and visitors, is celebrated annually to promote and preserve the cultural identity and traditions of Akure-speaking communities.(NAN)