The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Information and Culture, Dr. Ifeoma Adaora Anyanwutaku has described the recognition accorded Bida City as UNESCO Creative Cities Network, a noble achievement.
Anyanwutaku stated this, while receiving the delegation of Ministry of Tourism and Culture Niger State, led by the Commissioner Mrs Rifkatu Adamu Chidawa who were in her office to present the official letter of designation of Bida as a UNESCO Creative City. She added that this notable achievement, shows the importance of Creative industry which has the potentials, human resources and materials to showcase the rich Culture of the Country, adding that it is becoming the new oil, in terms of diversifying of economy.
She further expressed her appreciation and stressing that the Ministry is in full support and is ready to give both professional and technical guidance to create more awareness for the State.
Speaking earlier, Mrs Rifkatu Adamu Chidawa appreciated the Ministry for supporting Niger state.She said, Bida City was selected in the field of Craft and Folk Art, fourth on the list, first in Nigeria and Africa amongst other 49 cities that were designated by UNESCO Creative Cities Network. Adding that the recognition of Bida by UCCN would bring about full integration of cultural ties, job creation and as well as distribution of goods and services.
Chidawa explained that Bida stands to benefit financially not only accessing cultural grants from UNESCO but collaborating with other member cities in terms of cultural development. She plead for more collaboration, networking and support from Federal Government and the Ministry in establishing all that is needed by UNESCO to create awareness for Bida City, adding that 27th June is a date stipulated every year for Craft and Folk Art in Bida City.
Others present at the meeting were, Ibrahim. D. Abubakar Permanent Secretary Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Mohammed Kudu Abubakar who represented the ETSU Nupe, Eng. Y.Y. Sani and Mayor Suleiman Sheshi.