Ogun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbayi, says leveraging the inherent benefits of cultural  networking with states in the country would advance the culture and tourism sector.

     Hon. Fagbayi, made this known during the opening ceremony of the 2024 National Festival  for Arts and Culture, ( NAFEST), at the Arts and Craft Village, Abuja tagged; "Connected  Culture".

   The Commissioner stated that states had the opportunity of cross-fertilise ideas ,  networking with other states in order to boost the states' Internal generated revenue through  cultural  arts and crafts. 

     He commended Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration for supporting cultural activities in the state and ensuring participation of contingents in the onging International Arts and Crafts Arts  (INAC)  expo and NAFEST.

        Hon. Fagbayi assured  that  the state would leave no stone unturned at ensuring that the glory and pride in the art of Adire  fabric was restored.

         Also speaking, Permanent Secretary in the state,Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Dr.Yusuff Quudus, said NAFEST had brought about meaningful interaction  and building of cultural opportunities between states. 

     Earlier, Minister for Arts, Culture, Tourism  and Creative Economy, Mrs. Hannatu Musa Musawa Esq. stated the transformative power of Arts and Culture in promoting national unity , social cohesion and economic growth.

      Hon. Musawa, represented by the Director General and Chief Executive Officer, National Film and Censors Board, Dr. Shuaibu Hussein, said the festival's theme was apt  as it reflects commitment, in promoting arts and Culture as a catalyst to economic development.

      Hannatu added that the Federal government was committed to ensuring an enabling environment that support the growth and development of the creative sector, urging participants to celebrate the diversity, creativity and resilience towards promoting arts and culture for economic diversification.

        In his speech, Director General, Nigerian Council For Arts and Culture, (NCAC), Mr. Obi Asika opined that  culture and people were the strongest assets that  Nigeria has, adding that it was imperative to empower the people and connect the culture.