IBI, April 19, 2024 — In a heartfelt appeal during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Nwonyo International Fishing and Cultural Festival in Ibi, Taraba, retired General Theophilus Danjuma urged Nigerians to cease violent activities and focus on fostering national progress. As chairman of the event, held in the headquarters of Ibi Local Government Area, Danjuma emphasized the critical need for peace to achieve meaningful development and enhance Nigeria’s standing on the international stage.
The Urgent Need for Peace in Nigeria
Danjuma’s Plea for Harmony Opening the ceremony, General Danjuma addressed the gathered crowd, stressing the importance of peace for the growth of Taraba and the nation at large. There must be peace in Taraba and Nigeria for any meaningful development to take place,” he stated, pointing out the severe implications of ongoing conflicts that have tarnished Nigeria’s image abroad. He highlighted the negative perception these conflicts have created, deterring foreigners from visiting or investing in the country: “At the moment, no sane foreigner will choose to come to Nigeria when we are butchering each other in all places.”
Condemnation of Ongoing Violence General Danjuma vehemently condemned the various forms of violence plaguing the country, including kidnapping and senseless killings, which have made Nigeria a subject of international ridicule. “Stop the kidnapping, stop the needless crises, stop the killings that have made Nigeria a laughing stock of the rest of the world,” he implored, appealing to the conscience of the nation to mend its ways and move towards peace.
The Significance of the Nwonyo Festival
Cultural Celebration as a Unifying Force The Nwonyo International Fishing and Cultural Festival, an annual event that draws participants from various parts of Nigeria and neighboring countries, is not just a showcase of the rich Jukun cultural heritage but also serves as a pivotal platform for promoting unity among diverse communities. General Danjuma emphasized the festival’s role in bringing together people from different backgrounds, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration which are essential for peace.
Support from Government and Community Leaders The festival received commendations from various stakeholders for its role in revitalizing cultural traditions and promoting tourism in Taraba State. Governor Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa, who attended the event, described the festival as a unifying factor among neighboring states. He highlighted the efforts of the Taraba government, under Governor Agbu Kefas, in paying attention to cultural values, which he noted as the foundation of peace.
Strengthening Cultural and Economic Ties Through Festivals
Revival of Traditional Practices Under the patronage of figures like General Danjuma and the support of local government, the Nwonyo Festival has been instrumental in reviving traditional fishing and cultural practices that had waned in previous years. The festival not only boosts the local economy by attracting tourists but also instills a sense of pride and identity among the local communities.
Economic Impact of Cultural Tourism The festival’s impact extends beyond cultural exhibition to significant economic benefits for the local community. By drawing visitors, the festival stimulates local businesses, from hospitality to retail, creating jobs and generating income. This economic boost is vital for the region’s development and can be a model for other states looking to harness the power of cultural tourism.
Calls for Continued Support and Development
Encouraging Peaceful Coexistence General Danjuma’s speech at the festival also served as a call to action for continued peace and development initiatives in the region. By fostering an environment of peace, the festival and similar cultural events can thrive and contribute more significantly to the local and national economy.
Governor’s Commitment to Cultural Preservation
Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State, alongside other dignitaries, emphasized the state’s dedication to preserving and promoting its cultural heritage. By hosting events like the Nwonyo Festival, the state government aims to underline the importance of culture in fostering peace and unity. Governor Kefas’s administration has been particularly active in integrating cultural development into the broader agenda for state advancement, recognizing that a strong cultural identity can be a catalyst for social cohesion and economic growth.
Fintiri’s Pledge of Support
Governor Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa, reflecting on the interconnectedness of peace, culture, and development, pledged ongoing support to ensure the festival’s sustenance. His presence and endorsement highlighted the collaborative efforts among neighboring states to promote cultural events as instruments of unity and peace-building. Fintiri’s remarks underscored the belief that culture, when leveraged appropriately, serves as a foundation for sustainable peace and community resilience.
Leveraging Culture for Economic and Social Development
Cultural Festivals as Economic Drivers
The Nwonyo Festival, like many cultural festivals around the world, presents significant economic opportunities for local communities. By attracting tourists and highlighting local crafts and traditions, such festivals can stimulate various sectors of the economy, from artisan crafts to food and hospitality services. The economic ripple effects of these events are profound, providing both direct and indirect benefits to the local population.
Social Benefits of Cultural Engagement
Beyond economic impacts, cultural festivals play a crucial role in strengthening social bonds within and between communities. They provide a platform for individuals from diverse backgrounds to share experiences, learn about each other’s cultures, and build mutual respect. This social integration is essential for developing a harmonious society, particularly in regions marked by diversity and historical conflicts.
Future Outlook: Promoting Peace Through Cultural Advocacy
Continued Advocacy by Leaders
General Danjuma’s call for peace and Governor Fintiri’s support for cultural advocacy mark a significant push towards utilizing cultural platforms for social and political advocacy. Leaders at various levels are recognizing the power of cultural events in bridging divides and addressing underlying tensions that lead to conflict. Continued advocacy in this direction can enhance understanding and cooperation across Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and cultural landscape.
The Role of Cultural Festivals in National Unity
The success of the Nwonyo Festival and similar events could serve as a model for other regions in Nigeria and beyond. By celebrating cultural diversity and promoting the values of peace and unity, such festivals can contribute to the broader national dialogue on unity and reconciliation. They offer a reminder of the commonalities that exist beyond the superficial differences, fostering a national identity built on diversity and mutual respect.
Conclusion: A Call for Nationwide Cultural Renaissance
As the 2024 Nwonyo International Fishing and Cultural Festival concludes, it leaves behind a legacy of hope and a roadmap for using culture as a conduit for peace and development. General Danjuma’s poignant appeal and the supportive echoes from political leaders provide a directive for the future—encouraging a nationwide cultural renaissance as a means to mend fissures and build a more cohesive and prosperous Nigeria. In moving forward, embracing cultural heritage and promoting its values could be pivotal in transforming Nigeria’s social and economic landscapes, crafting a narrative of unity and progress from the rich tapestry of its diverse cultural expressions.
