ABUJA, JULY 20, 2015 – The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has described the Durbar Festival in Northern Nigeria as “one of the most cherished precious stones in the cultural crown of Nigeria”.The minister stated this at the inauguration of the Exhibition, “Durbar in Northern Nigeria” at the UNESCO headquarters, Paris.
A statement issued on the event by the Special Adviser to the minister, Mr Segun Adeyemi, was made available to the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday in Abuja.
The minister said: “Durbar has been with us for very long, but over the ages it has proved its flexibility and its sensitivity to adaptation to changing circumstances.
“Today, its ancient garments for conflict have evolved into fares that please the eye with their splendour.
“Its celebration has become a feast of union of the people with their leadership, and a demonstration of the skills of valour and beauty.”
The minister said that Nigeria was building a dynamic and participatory public information system that would foster the promotion of the nation’s culture in all its diversities.
He welcomed the initiative that led to the exhibition and commended its creative photographer and manager.
The Exhibition was attended by the Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, the Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi and the Nigeria Permanent Representative to UNESCO, Mariam Katagum.
