Experts from different professional backgrounds have called on the Federal Government to integrate culture into the nation’s sustainable development goals with the aim of combating the present debilitating socio-economic challenges.
The experts, drawn from the academia, business community and socio-cultural groups, made the call during a round-table discussion organised by the UNESCO Institute for Africa Culture and International Understanding in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The theme of the programme was ‘Integration of Culture into National, Regional or International Sustainable Development: Frameworks, Strategies’.
Director of the institute, Professor Emeritus Peter Okebukola while addressing the participants also admonished the relevant authorities to encourage the integration of culture into the national development goals.
Okebukola asserted that culture has the potential to generate revenue that would complement the current fast-declining income from the oil sector.
He said: “As Nigeria grapples with multifaceted challenges, the workshop serves as a platform to explore innovative approaches that prioritise culture as a driving force for positive change. Through collaborative efforts and a concerted focus on leveraging cultural resources, stakeholders aim to chart a path towards a more sustainable and prosperous future for the nation.”
Professor Okebukola added, “We acknowledge the array of pressing challenges confronting Nigeria, including diminishing revenue streams, widespread poverty, escalating unemployment rates, and growing security concerns. Integrating culture into development frameworks could offer innovative solutions to these complex issues.”
To substantially reduce rural-urban migration, the experts unanimously agreed that the government should endeavour to develop the rural areas and provide the necessary infrastructure, as this would reduce rural-urban migration among the youth.
In his closing remark, the convener of the event, the Senior Programme Advisor at the institute, Ambassador Adebola Labiran, informed the discussants and participants that the outcome of the meeting will be compiled and forwarded to the relevant authorities for consideration and action when evolving policy pertaining to culture.
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