The Kwara Government on Friday pledged to promote the tourism potentials of the state in order to boost revenue and create employment.
Hajia Rahmat Adesina-Abaya, the state Commissioner for Social Development, Culture and Tourism, made the pledge in Ilorin at the 2012 Kwara Cultural Festival.
The commissioner, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Alhaji Abdulraham Sidiq, said government was planning to revive the status of culture and tourism in the state.
She urged individuals and non governmental bodies to partner with the ministry in order to the sector.
Adesina-Abaya further said that the festival was a celebration of the state’s cultural heritage, adding that it would sensitise the youths on the beauty of their indigenous dialects, music, dance and dresses.
The commissioner commended Gov. Abdulfatah Ahmed for the attention given to the promotion of the cultural heritage of the state.
She also said the state was determined to successfully host the 26th National Festival of Arts and Culture tagged “NAFEST 2012. ’’
The commissioner solicited the support of all residents to ensure a hitch-free festival.
Alhaji Isiaka Gold, the Secretary to the State Government, said government could ensure economic recovery without recourse to oil revenue.
“Indeed, it is crystal-clear that by developing the economic potentials of our crafts, culture and tourism as individuals and collectivity, poverty would be eliminated from our homes and society in general,’’ he said.
In his address of welcome, Mr Akande Kabir, the Chairman of Kwara Cultural Festival Executive Council, said the event was designed to align and promote the administration’s policy of promoting culture and tourism through public-private partnership. (NAN)