Culture
Ex-SGF, Boss Mustapha: Delivers Keynote Address @ 24 Waja Cultural Festival
|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Ex-SGF, Boss Mustapha: Delivers Keynote Address @ ’24 Waja Cultural Festival
— Celebrating cultural Heritage, Embracing our traditions with values By
Tom Garba, Yola
Yesterday, October 26, 2024, Boss Mustapha, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, chaired the 2024 Waja Cultural Festival, ToyirWiih, at the Talasse Township Stadium in Gombe State. His remarks highlighted the significance of cultural heritage in promoting unity, economic resilience, and sustainable development.
Mustapha commended the Waja people’s resilience in preserving their traditions, passed down through generations. He emphasized the importance of cultural festivals in reconnecting with roots, drawing strength from heritage, and uniting communities.
“The theme of today’s festival, ‘Celebrating Culture as a Vehicle for Integration,’ recognizes culture’s power to unite, heal, and shape a stronger future,” Mustapha stated. He praised the Waja people’s commitment to their identity, evident in their architectural styles, music, dance, and traditional craftsmanship.
Mustapha also stressed the economic benefits of preserving cultural practices, citing potential for local economic opportunities, tourism, and empowerment of local artisans. He encouraged supporting artistry and creativity to ensure cultural heritage becomes a living part of the economy.
In conclusion, Mustapha thanked the Waja Traditional Council for their dedication to keeping cultural traditions alive. He emphasized the importance of unity, diversity, and celebrating cultural identity, quoting Chinua Achebe, “The past must never be forgotten, for it is our compass to the future.”
As a respected Nigerian politician and lawyer, Boss Mustapha’s remarks resonated deeply with the audience. His commitment to cultural preservation and community development aligns with his previous roles, including Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19.
The 2024 Waja Cultural Festival serves as a testament to the enduring power of cultural heritage in Nigeria, promoting unity, resilience, and prosperity.
