The Kogi State Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hajiya Fatimah Momoh, has expressed her profound joy as the Ministry celebrated World Cultural Day in Kogi State.
The celebration was held at the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Kogi State Secretariat Complex, Lokoja.
In her address, the Hon. Commissioner thanked God for the opportunity to celebrate the 2026 World Cultural Day. She emphasised the importance of commemorating the day, stating:
“May 21 every year is set aside by the United Nations as World Cultural Day to raise awareness among the international community about the importance of culture, its socio-economic value, and tourism as a human venture capable of transforming societies. This celebration is one of the biggest observed globally following the adoption by the United Nations, under the theme: ‘World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Sustainable Development.’
This theme focuses on the ability of culture to empower people and equip them with the skills to drive change in their local communities. A core element of sustainable culture is ensuring that cultural industry decisions take cultural development into account. No society exists without its own culture. Culture is the identity of any society and a vital tool for economic sustainability.”
Hon. Momoh noted that Kogi State is one of the richest states in Nigeria in terms of cultural heritage, reflected in its vibrant festivals and ceremonies. She highlighted key festivals celebrated in the state,
including: Ekwechi Festival, Italo Festival, Ovia Osese Festival, Sango Festival, New Yam Festival, Boat Regatta Festival, Fishing Festival, Exchange Festival, Oro Festival, Ogayi Angwa Festival, Egbe Festival, Akwujane Ibaji Wonder Masquerade Festival, and Ogagi Gayi Festival.
She added that culture is a complex system of behaviours, values, beliefs, traditions, and artefacts transmitted across generations.
Hon. Momoh reaffirmed her commitment to developing, authorising, and implementing a calendar of cultural events and festivals to raise public awareness of celebrations and ceremonies across the state.
She also expressed appreciation to His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo for the continuous support the Ministry of Culture and Tourism has enjoyed since the inception of his administration. She expressed optimism that cultural festivals and tourism in Kogi State would be rebranded and positioned on the world map. She reiterated that technical support and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models would be pursued to help the Ministry and the government achieve their goals.
Noting that tourism projects are capital-intensive and that limited funds could pose a challenge, she proposed engaging private investors through PPP arrangements. She called for all relevant stakeholders to contribute ideas for creating an enabling environment for foreign and private investors. She also stressed the need to develop and review the culture and tourism policy framework to align with state, national, and international best practices, while creating job opportunities and increasing revenue.
Recognising that cultural festivals and tourism are among the largest revenue generators globally, Hon. Momoh stated that she is fully aware of this potential and is prepared to take the necessary steps to boost revenue generation in the state.
In his goodwill message, the Permanent Secretary, Mallam Salami Abdulrahaman Otaru, noted that Kogi State is endowed with a rich cultural and tourism heritage. He appealed to management and staff to support the Hon. Commissioner in promoting the state’s cultural heritage.
The Director of Arts and Culture, Elder Chris Yakubu, along with heads of parastatals and other directors, commended the Hon. Commissioner for her efforts in promoting the state’s cultural values.
A highlight of the celebration was a performance by the cultural troupe from the Council for Arts and Culture, Kogi State.
