By Abubakar Abraham
In a significant move to harness the state’s rich cultural heritage for economic growth and sustainable development, the Kogi State Government recently inaugurated the State Culture and Tourism Committee.
The inauguration ceremony was held at the office of the Secretary to the Government of Kogi State (SGS), Dr. Mrs. Arike Ayoade Folashade.
The SGS who represented Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, formally inaugurated the committee and delivered the Governor’s charge to members.
Related News
The Governor emphasised the need for deliberate efforts to leverage the state’s cultural assets.
“What we have must work for us. We have to be cautious of our roots, because when your source is faulty there’s a serious problem,” he said. “Please let’s showcase what we have in Kogi State. We need to have a Kogi Cultural Day and let’s have Kogi cultural attire so as to make Kogi State a tourist destination. Let’s put heads together for a better Kogi State.”
In her keynote charge, Dr. Folashade, highlighted the unbreakable bond between culture and tourism. “Culture is our heritage. Tourism is the bridge that shares that heritage with the world and translates it into economic prosperity,” she noted.
She referenced the revised National Tourism Policy, stressing the need for effective coordination across ministries and agencies.
The committee, she said, is expected to provide a collaborative platform that brings together all critical stakeholders — from security agencies to traditional rulers, government ministries, and local government authorities — to develop competitive tourism products and deliver exceptional visitor experiences.
“The diverse composition of this committee reflects our resolve to leave no one behind,” she added. “To every member here today, this is a call to service. We must work with dedication, creativity, and unity of purpose.”
Dr. Folashade further emphasised the importance of collaboration, effective management of tourism resources, security, and legal guidance in the committee’s operations to ensure success.
Contributing, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hajia Fatima Momoh, appreciated God for His guidance and appreciated the Governor’s vision. She stressed that culture and tourism remain vital instruments for revenue generation and the promotion of Kogi State’s diverse heritage.
On his part , Prince Philip Orebiyi, thanked the Chief Servant of Kogi State, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, for the opportunity given to serve, assuring that all ideas generated by the committee would be effectively utilized for the overall development of the state.
Several stakeholder at the event agreed for the establishment of an annual Kogi Cultural Day to showcase the state’s rich traditions and attract tourists. They also tasked the committee with developing a unique Kogi cultural attire that will serve as a unifying symbol and brand for the state.
Notable attendees at the event included representatives of security agencies such as the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, as well as officials from the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), the Ministry of Commerce, and other key stakeholders.
The inauguration reaffirms the commitment of the Ododo administration to repositioning culture and tourism as major pillars of sustainable development in Kogi State.
The newly inaugurated committee is expected to swing into action immediately, focusing on initiatives such as the proposed Kogi Cultural Day and the creation of a distinctive Kogi cultural attire, among other strategies aimed at unlocking the state’s tourism potential.
