Lokoja – Mr Jide Adeola, an expert in culture and tourism development, has urged government and relevant stakeholders to promote cultural diversity in order to foster peace and unity in the country.
Adeola made the call on Saturday in Lokoja on the sidelines of this year’s celebration of the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development.
He said governments and relevant stakeholders in the culture and tourism sectors must evolve proactive measures to promote the nation’s cultural heritage.
“Nigeria is a multilingual country with diverse multicultural background which can be harnessed to enrich us as a people and as a nation.
“Government and stakeholders at all levels must collectively work against the extinction and destruction of our cultural values and heritage.
“We must build a nation that will create an environment for individuals to be committed to supporting diversity with real and everyday life gestures,” he said.
He said Nigerians must learn to respect others’ beliefs and cultures irrespective of tribe, religion, language and background.
Adeola urged the Federal Government and all stakeholders to put in place policies that would enhance intercultural dialogue and development.
“People and organisations from across the country should be encouraged to take concrete actions to support our diversity.
“We must raise awareness nationwide on the importance of intercultural dialogue, diversity and inclusion for socio-economic development.
“It is our collective responsibilities as individuals and a nation to fight against polarisation and stereotypes that hinder cooperation among people from different cultures,” he said.
NAN reports that the UN General Assembly in its resolution 57/249 of December 2002, declared every May 21 as the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development.
The day provides people with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the values of cultural diversity and to learn to live together. (NAN)