The Honorable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hajiya Fatimah Momoh, has emphasized the importance of unity among staff as a cornerstone for the ministry’s progress. This call to action was made during her visit to the various agencies under the ministry’s purview.
Hon. Fatimah characterized the visit as a comprehensive effort to engage with staff members and explore strategies for enhancing the state’s revenue generation.
In her address, Hon. Fatimah expressed her gratitude to God for His love and mercy. She also extended her thanks to His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his consistent support of the ministry. She prayed for divine blessings and protection for him as he navigates life’s journey.
Hajiya Fatimah Momoh urged the management staff to foster a sense of brotherhood and sisterhood, transcending tribal and religious differences. “We are all Kogites, brought together for a purpose. Let us preserve and promote our cultural heritage,” she stated. She highlighted “Ebigo,” the traditional attire, as a symbol of cultural pride and unity, encouraging its use to showcase and reinforce collective identity.
The Honorable Commissioner committed to presenting the ministry’s challenges to the Chief Servant of the State, His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo. She noted that, as a governor who values culture, his steadfast support would be instrumental in unlocking the ministry’s potential to boost state revenue and attract both national and international tourists, thereby ensuring the ministry’s effective operation.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Hajiya Sualihat Musa Amana, urged the Heads of Parastatals and Directors to remain steadfast in their prayers, seeking divine guidance for the Honorable Commissioner to effectively lead the ministry. She emphasized the importance of collective effort to achieve successful outcomes.
Elder Chris Yakub, Director of Culture and Creative Economy, expressed gratitude to the Honorable Commissioner for her support.
He urged her to leverage her political influence to create employment opportunities for performing artists who have represented the state at local, national, and international levels but remain unemployed.
Alhaji Tanko Inuwa, Director of Tourism and Development, highlighted the significance of the state’s natural resources. He noted that global tourism standards suggest that out of every ten workers, one or two should be employed in the tourism sector, either directly or indirectly.
He emphasized the potential for these resources to be harnessed and transformed into revenue, benefiting the state.
At the Council for Arts and Culture, Director Mrs. Elizabeth Eleojo expressed appreciation for the Honorable Commissioner’s visit. She outlined the challenges faced by the council, including insufficient funding to execute programs aimed at generating more revenue for the state government.
She also highlighted the need for a new theater building for artist performances and the renovation of dilapidated facilities.
At the Kogi State Hotel and Tourism Board, Chairman Hon. Philip Orebiyi, represented by Director of Administration Mr. Ebenezer Sunday, expressed gratitude for the Honorable Commissioner’s visit.
He outlined the board’s needs, including the lack of adequate office accommodations
