NICO CEO, Otunba Abiodun Ajiboye Advocates for Nigerian Cultural Identity at Seminar on BRI Culture and Tourism Exchange
Otunba Abiodun Ajiboye Advocates for Nigerian Cultural Identity at Seminar on BRI Culture and Tourism Exchange
Jerry Adesewo
In an inspiring keynote address delivered at the seminar on promoting culture and tourism within the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) framework, Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, the Executive Secretary and CEO of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), highlighted the importance of fostering cultural identity and tourism exchange between Nigeria and China. The event, organised by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in collaboration with the China Alumni Association of Nigeria and the University of Abuja, took place at the Chinese Cultural Centre, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, on Friday, July 12, 2024.
Ajiboye expressed his gratitude to the Embassy of China for their continued commitment to enhancing mutual understanding and collaboration between the two nations. He emphasised the crucial role of culture and tourism as tools to bridge gaps, foster mutual understanding, and create lasting bonds between peoples and nations.
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“Cultural exchange is not merely a diplomatic activity; it is a profound way to enrich our societies and build a foundation of mutual respect and understanding,” Ajiboye stated. He underscored the significance of cultural exchange in modern diplomacy, noting that it helps eliminate conventionalism and formality in diplomatic gatherings.
Otunba Ajiboye highlighted Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity, which stems from the over 250 ethnic groups that inhabit the country. He pointed out that Nigeria’s cultural policy, established in 1988, defines culture as “the totality of the way of life evolved by people in their attempts to meet the challenges of living in their environment, which gives order and meaning to their social, political, and economic aesthetics and religious norms and modes of organization.”
Moreover, he emphasised the economic potential of Nigeria’s tourism policy, established in 1990, which aims to generate foreign exchange earnings, create employment opportunities, promote rural enterprises, and foster national integration. Ajiboye called for leveraging the BRI framework to enhance Nigeria’s tourism infrastructure, promote sustainable tourism practices, and create unique cultural experiences for visitors.
“The Belt and Road Initiative provides a robust framework for cultural exchanges, enabling us to share our rich cultural heritage with the world while embracing the diverse cultures of our partners,” Ajiboye said. He expressed Nigeria’s readiness to engage in meaningful cultural exchanges with China, sharing Nigeria’s vibrant festivals, traditional arts, music, dance, and cuisine.
Ajiboye also highlighted the role of culture as a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and cultural preservation. He called for a cultural renaissance in Nigeria, emulating China’s success in using culture as a tool for national development. He emphasized the need for cultural and tourism initiatives that strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and China.
In alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda, Ajiboye reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for cultural and tourism exchange. He announced that NICO is working on joint projects, exchange programs, and collaborative initiatives with Chinese counterparts. One such initiative is the creation of a Cultural Technology department in the newly conceived Nigerian Academy for Cultural Studies (NACUS), with support from China.
In conclusion, Ajiboye expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria-China cultural and tourism exchange. “By embracing our shared values and celebrating our unique cultures, we can build a future of mutual understanding, respect, and prosperity,” he said. “Let us harness the power of culture and tourism to strengthen the bonds between our nations and create a brighter future for all.”
The seminar, attended by cultural enthusiasts, diplomats, and policymakers, marked a significant step towards enhancing cultural identity and tourism exchange between Nigeria and China, within the context of the Belt and Road Initiative. Other speakers at the seminar include Mr. Muhammaed Suleiman, President of the Society of Nigerian Artistes. Professor Bibi Faruk and Professor