October 15, (THEWILL) –Â The Ogun state contingent put up a dazzling cultural show of force at the ongoing International Arts and Crafts Expo in Abuja.
They pulled no punches, showcasing their rich Ankara and Batik fabric economy, spiced with gastronomical outing of the famed Ofada rice, to the delight of participants and invited dignitaries.
Olusegun Olaotan, Permanent Secretary, Ogun state Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, took to the expo podium to state the diversity of the state’s rich cultural tourism endowments.
In what appeared to be a strategic policy effort to enthrone a sustainable cultural tourism economy in Ogun state, a food court was for practical outreach to gain the endorsement and buy in of participants, was on showcase with enough delicious culinary offerings served free to participants who thronged Sheraton Hotel, Abuja, the venue of the expo.
Otunba Segun Runsewe, the director-general of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), praised the leadership of Ogun state Governor Dapo  Abiodun for his determination and passion to create a cultural tourism economy for Ogun state.
“What we saw at the Ogun state night is a clear reflection of a governor, a leader who is determined to leave the state better than he met it. And through the local Adire fabric economy, jobs are created, and an industry sustained. Governor Abiodun has even brought in the culinary offerings, a perfect hold for the Ogun people, noted for its unique Ofada Rice veriant, very healthy and good for export,” Runsewe said.
The NCAC boss who also doubles as the president, Africa Region, World Craft Council ( WCC), reiterated the urgent need for all state governors to exploit their cultural offerings as they transform their dormant economies.
The International Arts and Crafts Expo comes to an epic end Friday.
Photo caption: The Ogun State Cultural Troupe performing at the ongoing International Arts and Crafts Expo in Abuja.
Janefrances Ebere Chibuzor is a Tourism Writer at THEWILL
