How to save Nigerian cultures from extinction

Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture, Idowu Johnson, has called on parents to inculcate Nigerian cultures in their wards’ social lives.

Speaking yesterday during the 2024 Word Culture Day in Alausa, Johnson said the agency has developed a community-based tourism ‘where we urge local governments to have tourism officers to inform the state about activities or ideas indigenous to their council. This will help us find ways of collaboration, he said.

According to Johnson, the agency, in collaboration with ALEF, a consulting firm from Argentina, is planning to train 10,000 youths on using the digital space to promote Nigerian culture.

He added: “It’s a reminder that our unique perspectives and experiences are what make us strong, and that by embracing and learning from each other, we can build a more compassionate and inclusive world.

“Throughout this event, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the music, art, food, and traditions of cultures from around the globe. You’ll meet people from all walks of life, each with their own story to tell and wisdom to share.”

A senior lecturer at the Department of Creative Arts, University of Lagos, Florence Nweke, urged Nigerians to embrace cultural diversity.

According to her, “we have different people from different cultures but we should all learn to respect one another’s culture thereby promoting diversity.”

Nweke, who enjoined parents to expose their children to other cultures, also called for parental monitoring of the ‘Gen Zs’, saying ‘sending them to good schools is not enough to make them embrace local cultures’.

“As much as they’re being exposed to the social media, their device should be properly monitored for proper guidance. Culture plays a significant role in promoting moral values. It shapes our understanding of what is right and wrong, and guides our behavior accordingly. It is crucial for cultural owners to derive moral and economic benefits from their cultural heritages to incentivize their investment of time and resources in preserving these legacies for future generations,” Nweke added.