Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on Deltans to deploy culture as a symbol of identity.
According to him, culture can also be used as a strategic instrument for development and nation-building.
Governor Oborevwori who made the call on Monday at the 20th Anioma Cultural Festival, held at Asaba, noted that, his administration remain resolute and committed to leveraging culture as a catalyst for development.
Represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Ph.D., the governor said that under the MORE Agenda, meaningful development, opportunities for all, realistic reforms, and enhanced peace and security, the state government is deliberately promoting initiatives that preserve the cultural heritage and also translate it into tangible economic value, particularly for the youths and women.
Governor Oborevwori commended the Organisation for the Advancement of Anioma Culture (OFAAC) for its unwavering commitment to safeguarding and projecting the rich cultural heritage of the Anioma people.
The Governor said, “two decades of sustained dedication by OFAAC to the preservation and promotion of Anioma culture is a milestone worthy of commendation and collective pride.
“I warmly applaud the Organisation for the Advancement of Anioma Culture (OFAAC) for its unwavering commitment to safeguarding and projecting the rich cultural heritage of the Anioma people.”
“Over the years, OFAAC has emerged as a formidable institution in documenting Anioma history and preserving its identity. This noble endeavour is not only commendable; it is of enduring historical significance.
“I must particularly acknowledge the President of OFAAC, Arc. Kester Ifeadi, whose vision, passion, and steadfast leadership have ensured the continuity and growth of this cultural movement.
‘Through your efforts, culture has remained a unifying force, strengthening identity, cohesion, and pride among the people.
“The theme of this year’s festival, ‘Culture: A Tool for Development,’ is both timely and profound.
“Culture is the soul of a people; it defines identity, shapes values, and provides the foundation for sustainable progress.
“In Anioma land, our heritage expressed through the elegance of Akwa-Ocha, the spectacle of our masquerades, the depth of our proverbs, the rhythm of our music, and the dignity of our traditional institutions constitutes a vital resource for economic growth.
“Properly harnessed, these cultural assets can drive tourism, stimulate creativity, and unlock entrepreneurial opportunities.
“As a government, we remain resolute in our commitment to leveraging culture as a catalyst for development.
“Under the MORE Agenda: Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security, we are deliberately promoting initiatives that not only preserve our cultural heritage but also translate it into tangible economic value, particularly for our youths and women.
“To our revered Royal Fathers and traditional institutions, I express profound appreciation for your steadfast role as custodians of our customs and values. Your wisdom and leadership continue to underpin the peace, stability, and progress we enjoy across Anioma land.
“To the youths of Anioma, I urge you to take pride in your heritage.
“Embrace your culture, deepen your understanding of it, and deploy it as a platform for innovation and excellence.
“Modernity does not diminish culture; rather, it provides new avenues for its expression.
“A people who lose touch with their heritage risk losing their future.
“As we commemorate this 20th edition of the Anioma Cultural Festival, let it inspire a renewed commitment to unity, peace, and shared prosperity.
“Let us continue to deploy culture not merely as a symbol of identity, but as a strategic instrument for development and nation-building.”
Earlier, in a welcome address, the President of the Organisation for the Advancement of Anioma Culture (OFAAC), Arc. Kester Ifeadi, the festival celebration is a reminder that culture is not just about the past, but the foundation of the future.
“As we gather here in unity, let us recommit ourselves to the values that define us: respect, integrity, hard work, and community spirit.”
“It is with great joy and deep pride that I welcome you all to the 20th Annual Cultural Festival of the Organization for the Advancement of Anioma Culture (OFAAC),” he said.
Present at the event were the former Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, the Obi Owa, Asagba of Asaba, amongst others.
