Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, representing Kaduna South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has stressed the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
He said such festivals are valuable resources that can nurture national unity, social cohesion, and economic growth.
Senator Katung spoke at the Khituk Gwong Cultural Festival held at the Gwong Development Association Complex in Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The event was graced by the Governor of Kaduna State, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other distinguished Nigerians from all walks of life.
The Senator said he was deeply honoured to be part of this year’s Khituk Gwong Cultural Festival, a celebration that showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Gwong people.
“Cultural festivals play a vital role in preserving our traditions, fostering social bonds, boosting tourism, and promoting group identity and unity. Therefore, I wish to congratulate the Gwong people for sustaining this festival for so long and encourage them to continue this vital tradition,” he said.
“The coming generations need this festival, as it serves as a link to their cultural history and identity. Furthermore, the theme ‘Gwong Heritage: Embracing Our Roots, Inspiring Our Future’ highlights the significance of recognising our heritage as an essential aspect of our identity and the need to preserve and celebrate it with pride.
“By doing so, we will continue to build bridges into the future that honour our past and sustain our uniqueness,” he added.
He recalled that, like other festivals in Southern Kaduna, the Khituk Gwong Cultural Festival highlighted the importance of their traditions and customs.
“They are the fabric that binds our society together and play a crucial role in shaping our identity. This is why I will continue to encourage ethnic groups that lack such festivals to seriously consider starting something.”
“As your representative, I am committed to supporting initiatives that encourage cultural development, preservation, and exchange. Our cultural heritage is a valuable resource that, through tourism, can nurture national unity, social cohesion, and economic growth,” he added.
Senator Katung prayed that the festival would be a time to renew friendships, rejuvenate love, and strengthen the bonds between the people and the diverse communities around them.
“May it continue to inspire and unite us despite our differing beliefs, political views, and ethnic backgrounds. Thank you,” he concluded.
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