The National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) has launched an online platform to showcase Nigerian rich and diverse cultural heritage.
NCAC Director-General, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, unveiled the website – culturalvirtualtour.ncac.gov.ng, during an online webinar.
Runsewe revealed that Nigerians would henceforth be opportune to view the nation’s rich and diverse cultures, festivals, cuisines, relics and monuments at the comfort of their homes.
He said the agency put into consideration effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism.
“The entire world had been on lockdown, so people’s travel appetite could be greased, keeping them abreast of nation’s culture.
”NCAC is happy to unveil this virtual platform for the world to see Nigeria’s heritage sites, our culture and everything that makes us unique.
”We want people to know the efficacy of culture as a therapy for COVID-19 and also project Nigeria as the hub of tourism.
”COVID-19 has pushed us to think outside the box and it is a great development for the industry, so people can watch diverse culture at their leisure now.
”The recent editions of the International Arts and Crafts Expo (INAC) and the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) are also included on the virtual platform.
”We will still be unveiling the drive-in cultural festival which will enable everyone watch theatre performances from different parts of the country, this will enable people learn other people’s cuisines,” he said.
Runsewe during the online webinar, showcased six heritage sites from six states, picking from each geo-political zone.
The DG highlighted the oldest Iron smelting site in the world located in Nsuka, Enugu state; Kanta museum located in Argungu in Kebbi state, built in 1831.
Runsewe said that the Kanta museum offered an insight into the turbulent history of Kebbi state.
”We have decided to showcase one state from each geo-political zone today, while other states can be seen on the link.
”The Zungeru military cementary where the first military officers were buried is another interesting site also the Tafawa Balewa tomb in Bauchi state.
”I believe the labour of our heroes should not be in vain, we should remember them and continually keep them as part of our history.
”These heritage sites project our strength as a people and everything that makes us unique,” he said.
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