Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Friday, June 11, 2010
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
VOX POP AT AFAC 2010
Business is picking gradually and as you can see, some people are still fixing their stands. We are hopeful that the fair will be a good one.
- Momodu Waad, Senegal
The fair has been fine, security has been fantastic. We espect a good fair after a days, because it has just started. We want the organisers to do more in the area of publicity through hand bills, bill boards and so on.
- Mary of Makedac Creations
Sales has been impressive, sometimes people come in groups and patronise you immediately, others will promise to come back. The idea of a craft Expo is laudable.
- Charles Bulla of Dajo Pottery
Business has been fine, no complaints.
- Kofi from Ghana deals on Jewelries
Too early to complain, patronage has been fair, but more should be done to create greater awareness.
- Emmanuel Kwaku Acheanporg
- Momodu Waad, Senegal
The fair has been fine, security has been fantastic. We espect a good fair after a days, because it has just started. We want the organisers to do more in the area of publicity through hand bills, bill boards and so on.
- Mary of Makedac Creations
Sales has been impressive, sometimes people come in groups and patronise you immediately, others will promise to come back. The idea of a craft Expo is laudable.
- Charles Bulla of Dajo Pottery
Business has been fine, no complaints.
- Kofi from Ghana deals on Jewelries
Too early to complain, patronage has been fair, but more should be done to create greater awareness.
- Emmanuel Kwaku Acheanporg
ECOWAS Commission Recommends AFAC Expo for Sub-Regional Award
The President of the Economic Community of West African States Commission, has called on the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation and the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) to present the annual African Arts and Crafts Expo (AFAC) to the Commission for consideration for an award/prize.
In the President’s goodwill message presented by a representative of the Commission Ruby David, the President stated that the Commission places huge premium on the culture sector, which informed its decision to institute a prize for Excellence in 1992, aimed at promoting research and creativity.
“We are aware of the pivotal role that culture plays in the development of modern societies. We are all guilty of the period when culture was relegated to the background in our development endeavours and the resultant negative effects of that action. Thank God the world has woken up to the realization that Culture is a fundamental dimension that is intrinsic to national and global development. In other words, we are now conscious of the fact that culture must be given its proper place as the centre to which all developmental efforts should hinge. This is because when a man is severed from his cultural roots, that man has lost his identity and will be groping for direction like someone in darkness, one without a foundation.”
In the President’s goodwill message presented by a representative of the Commission Ruby David, the President stated that the Commission places huge premium on the culture sector, which informed its decision to institute a prize for Excellence in 1992, aimed at promoting research and creativity.
“We are aware of the pivotal role that culture plays in the development of modern societies. We are all guilty of the period when culture was relegated to the background in our development endeavours and the resultant negative effects of that action. Thank God the world has woken up to the realization that Culture is a fundamental dimension that is intrinsic to national and global development. In other words, we are now conscious of the fact that culture must be given its proper place as the centre to which all developmental efforts should hinge. This is because when a man is severed from his cultural roots, that man has lost his identity and will be groping for direction like someone in darkness, one without a foundation.”
AFAC A MAJOR VECTOR TO OPEN UP ARTS, CRAFTS MARKET - GASSOL
The Chairman, Senator Committee on Culture and Tourism, Senator Dahiru Bako Gassol has stated that the annual African Arts and Crafts Expo (AFAC) organized by the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation and the National Council for Arts and Culture is a major vector that can open up the arts and crafts market to serve local and international demands.
Senator Gassol who chaired the Investment Forum for the 3rd AFAC Expo, said the Investment Forum creates all the parameters aimed at stimulating the economic growth of arts and crafts in Nigeria and indeed Africa at large.
“The forum removes the bottlenecks that stunt the growth of the industry and also examines the market institutions and other networks that will encourage the growth of arts and crafts in the African region”, he said.
He however pledged the support of the Senate to support AFAC expo through robust budgetary provisions and commended the National Council for Arts and Culture in sustaining the tempo of the fair.
Idi Hong advocates One Village, One Product at AFAC Expo 2010
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Aliyu Idi Hong has lauded the efforts of the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation as well as the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) in sustaining the African Arts and Crafts Expo (AFAC) and urged the Council to partner the Federal Ministry of Commerce and Industry in its One-Village-One-Product initiative.
According to the Minister, both initiatives have equal potentials of boosting socio-economic activities at the grass root level and ultimately raise the standard of living of Nigerians, especially those in the rural areas.
Hong who made the call at the Opening Ceremony of the 3rd AFAC Expo, said he was impressed with the impact AFAC Expo has made two years after its conception in 2008, when he was the Minister of State for Tourism, Culture and National Orientation.
The Minister further stated that the crafts sector had continued to receive huge attention from several governments in the middle East, Asia and South America given the potential inherent in the sector.
He called on the stakeholders in the sector to join hands in the nation’s drive to reposition the crafts sector and maximise its gains.
Senator Gassol who chaired the Investment Forum for the 3rd AFAC Expo, said the Investment Forum creates all the parameters aimed at stimulating the economic growth of arts and crafts in Nigeria and indeed Africa at large.
“The forum removes the bottlenecks that stunt the growth of the industry and also examines the market institutions and other networks that will encourage the growth of arts and crafts in the African region”, he said.
He however pledged the support of the Senate to support AFAC expo through robust budgetary provisions and commended the National Council for Arts and Culture in sustaining the tempo of the fair.
Idi Hong advocates One Village, One Product at AFAC Expo 2010
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Aliyu Idi Hong has lauded the efforts of the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation as well as the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) in sustaining the African Arts and Crafts Expo (AFAC) and urged the Council to partner the Federal Ministry of Commerce and Industry in its One-Village-One-Product initiative.
According to the Minister, both initiatives have equal potentials of boosting socio-economic activities at the grass root level and ultimately raise the standard of living of Nigerians, especially those in the rural areas.
Hong who made the call at the Opening Ceremony of the 3rd AFAC Expo, said he was impressed with the impact AFAC Expo has made two years after its conception in 2008, when he was the Minister of State for Tourism, Culture and National Orientation.
The Minister further stated that the crafts sector had continued to receive huge attention from several governments in the middle East, Asia and South America given the potential inherent in the sector.
He called on the stakeholders in the sector to join hands in the nation’s drive to reposition the crafts sector and maximise its gains.
ROLL CALL OF DIGNITARIES AT AFAC 2010
AFAC Expo 2010 was graced by several important dignitaries. They include the following:
• His Excellency, the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria ably represented by Navy Captain, Omoniyi Caleb Olubolade rtd - Honourable Minister of Special Duties.
• The Honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed.
• The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Alhaji Sheidu Ozigis, OON, mni ably represented by Gambo Dori.
• The Chairman, Senate Committee on Culture and Tourism, Senator Dahiru Bako Gassol.
• The Chairman, House Committee on Culture and Tourism, Rt. Hon. KGB Oguakwa (HSR).
• The Hon. Minister of State Foreign Affairs, Dr. Aliyu Idi Hong.
• The Commissioner for Human Development and Gender, Dr. Adrienne Diop of the ECOWAS Commission ably represented by Ruby David
• The Chairman Governing Board, National Council for Arts and Culture, Chief Ebenezer Babatope, OFR
• The Director-General, National Troupe of Nigeria
• The Legal Adviser, FMTC & NO - Alhaji I. H. Dikko
• The Director of Culture - FMTC & NO - Nkanta George Ufot
• The Director of Tourism, FMTC & NO - Johnson Odekina
• The Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Kogi State - Mr. O. E. Akpata
• The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Plateau State, Hajiya Zainab Jibrin
• The Director Arts and Culture, FCT - Hajiya Nana Sokwa
• The Executive Director, History and Culture Bureaux, Jigawa State, Alhaji Daniya Uba Ringim
• The Executive Director, Katsina State History and Culture Bureaux, Alhaji Tijjani Abu Umar.
• Former Executive Director, Niger State Council for Arts and Culture - Alhaji Ndagana Kinbokun
And . . . the High Commissioners came calling too —
• The High Commissioner of Namibia - HE Mr. Daniel Smith
• The Acting High Commissioner of Trinidad and Tobago - Mr. Colin Connelly
• The High Commissioner/Head of Delegation of Cameroon - Ambassador Salahe Dine Abbas Ibrahima
• The representative Niger Republic Embassy - Mayana Suleman
• The Ambassador of Chad Republic - Mahamat Habib Dutum
• The French Ambassador to Nigeria
• The Second Secretary/Press Attache Sierra Leon High Commission
the media was not left out either . . . . . .
• Nigeria Television Authority (NTA)
• Africa Independent Television (AIT)
• The Guardian Newspapers
• Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (Radio Nig. Network)
• Vanguard Newspapers
• Nigerian Tribune
• Champion Newspapers
• Business World
• The Compass
• Ray Power
• Daily Triumph
• The Source
• DBN TV
• News Agency of Nigeria
• Daily Independent
• Leadership Newspaper
• Africa’s People’s Voice
• Daily Trust
• Voice of Nigeria
• The Abuja Inquiry
• Africa Independent Times
• The Punch
• Business Day
• Peoples Daily
• National Chronicle
• Reality Magazine
• The Summit
• His Excellency, the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria ably represented by Navy Captain, Omoniyi Caleb Olubolade rtd - Honourable Minister of Special Duties.
• The Honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed.
• The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Alhaji Sheidu Ozigis, OON, mni ably represented by Gambo Dori.
• The Chairman, Senate Committee on Culture and Tourism, Senator Dahiru Bako Gassol.
• The Chairman, House Committee on Culture and Tourism, Rt. Hon. KGB Oguakwa (HSR).
• The Hon. Minister of State Foreign Affairs, Dr. Aliyu Idi Hong.
• The Commissioner for Human Development and Gender, Dr. Adrienne Diop of the ECOWAS Commission ably represented by Ruby David
• The Chairman Governing Board, National Council for Arts and Culture, Chief Ebenezer Babatope, OFR
• The Director-General, National Troupe of Nigeria
• The Legal Adviser, FMTC & NO - Alhaji I. H. Dikko
• The Director of Culture - FMTC & NO - Nkanta George Ufot
• The Director of Tourism, FMTC & NO - Johnson Odekina
• The Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Kogi State - Mr. O. E. Akpata
• The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Plateau State, Hajiya Zainab Jibrin
• The Director Arts and Culture, FCT - Hajiya Nana Sokwa
• The Executive Director, History and Culture Bureaux, Jigawa State, Alhaji Daniya Uba Ringim
• The Executive Director, Katsina State History and Culture Bureaux, Alhaji Tijjani Abu Umar.
• Former Executive Director, Niger State Council for Arts and Culture - Alhaji Ndagana Kinbokun
And . . . the High Commissioners came calling too —
• The High Commissioner of Namibia - HE Mr. Daniel Smith
• The Acting High Commissioner of Trinidad and Tobago - Mr. Colin Connelly
• The High Commissioner/Head of Delegation of Cameroon - Ambassador Salahe Dine Abbas Ibrahima
• The representative Niger Republic Embassy - Mayana Suleman
• The Ambassador of Chad Republic - Mahamat Habib Dutum
• The French Ambassador to Nigeria
• The Second Secretary/Press Attache Sierra Leon High Commission
the media was not left out either . . . . . .
• Nigeria Television Authority (NTA)
• Africa Independent Television (AIT)
• The Guardian Newspapers
• Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (Radio Nig. Network)
• Vanguard Newspapers
• Nigerian Tribune
• Champion Newspapers
• Business World
• The Compass
• Ray Power
• Daily Triumph
• The Source
• DBN TV
• News Agency of Nigeria
• Daily Independent
• Leadership Newspaper
• Africa’s People’s Voice
• Daily Trust
• Voice of Nigeria
• The Abuja Inquiry
• Africa Independent Times
• The Punch
• Business Day
• Peoples Daily
• National Chronicle
• Reality Magazine
• The Summit
SHORT REMARKS BY SENATOR DAHIRU BAKO GASSOL, CHAIRMAN SENATORE COMMITTEE ON CULTURE AND TOURISM AT THE OCCASION OF THE “INVESTMENT FORUM” OF THE 3rd A
Protocol
I am glad to be here today, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, to chair the Investment Forum, a very important segment of the African Arts and Crafts (AFAC) Expo, 2010.
Indeed any major development initiative that is designed to be sustainable cannot afford to neglect the craft industry sector, partly because it is second only to Agriculture in terms of job creation and economic sustainability especially among the rural populace.
I am therefore delighted that the National Council for Arts and Culture, a parastatal of the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation is proactively through her re-engineering efforts initiated the hosting of the African Arts and Crafts Expo (AFAC) as a major vector to open up the Arts and Crafts market, both to serve local and international demand.
This is why the Investment Forum today is particularly significant as it will attempt to create all the parameters that are aimed at stimulating the economic growth of arts and crafts in Nigeria and indeed Africa at large. The forum will address such issues that will remove the bottlenecks that stunt the growth of the industry. It will also examine market institutions and other networks that will encourage the growth of arts and crafts in the African Region.
The forum is expected to serve as linkage between Arts and Crafts producers and the necessary financial institutions, micro-finance agencies and other governmental institutions aimed at stimulating and promoting small and medium scale enterprises development.
I therefore wish to thank the National Council for Arts and Culture for incorporating this segment (Investment Forum) in the overall conduct of this programme. I am confident that all the speakers, noted professionals in their own rights, will provide insights that will guide the Ministry to design a better framework for a more productive and growth of the sector.
On this note, I wish to thank all the speakers at this occasion for their commitment to the development of the African Craft Industry.
On our part in consultation with my colleagues we will continue to improve on our budgetary process to support the development and growth of the culture sector and particularly the African Arts and Crafts (AFAC) Expo.
I also wish to thank the gentlemen of the press whose partnership is ever needed for creating awareness among our people on the benefits derivable from this Expo. It is our hope that by year 2020, the Arts and Crafts sector, would have contributed its quota in our quest towards attaining the 20 largest economies in the world. This in my view is achievable, but requires our collective efforts.
I thank you very much and God bless.
I am glad to be here today, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, to chair the Investment Forum, a very important segment of the African Arts and Crafts (AFAC) Expo, 2010.
Indeed any major development initiative that is designed to be sustainable cannot afford to neglect the craft industry sector, partly because it is second only to Agriculture in terms of job creation and economic sustainability especially among the rural populace.
I am therefore delighted that the National Council for Arts and Culture, a parastatal of the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation is proactively through her re-engineering efforts initiated the hosting of the African Arts and Crafts Expo (AFAC) as a major vector to open up the Arts and Crafts market, both to serve local and international demand.
This is why the Investment Forum today is particularly significant as it will attempt to create all the parameters that are aimed at stimulating the economic growth of arts and crafts in Nigeria and indeed Africa at large. The forum will address such issues that will remove the bottlenecks that stunt the growth of the industry. It will also examine market institutions and other networks that will encourage the growth of arts and crafts in the African Region.
The forum is expected to serve as linkage between Arts and Crafts producers and the necessary financial institutions, micro-finance agencies and other governmental institutions aimed at stimulating and promoting small and medium scale enterprises development.
I therefore wish to thank the National Council for Arts and Culture for incorporating this segment (Investment Forum) in the overall conduct of this programme. I am confident that all the speakers, noted professionals in their own rights, will provide insights that will guide the Ministry to design a better framework for a more productive and growth of the sector.
On this note, I wish to thank all the speakers at this occasion for their commitment to the development of the African Craft Industry.
On our part in consultation with my colleagues we will continue to improve on our budgetary process to support the development and growth of the culture sector and particularly the African Arts and Crafts (AFAC) Expo.
I also wish to thank the gentlemen of the press whose partnership is ever needed for creating awareness among our people on the benefits derivable from this Expo. It is our hope that by year 2020, the Arts and Crafts sector, would have contributed its quota in our quest towards attaining the 20 largest economies in the world. This in my view is achievable, but requires our collective efforts.
I thank you very much and God bless.
VOTE OF THANKS BY CHIEF EBENEZER BABATOPE, OFR CHAIRMAN GOVERNING BOARD OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL FOR ARTS AND CULTURE (NCAC) AT THE OPENING CEREMONY OF
Protocol
Let me begin by thanking the Almighty God for his travelling mercies and guidance in the course of our various journeys to witness this historic event, the 3rd African Arts and Crafts Expo.
I place on record my profound gratitude to Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, President, Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for his love and commitment to the development of the culture and tourism industry in Nigeria, and the renewed vigour his Excellency is employing to the diversification and growth of our national economy. This has informed a multi-sectoral approach to the challenge of nation building and promises to elevate our country to the big league of the 20 largest economies of the world by 2020. Mr. President, we thank you for your commitment to the building of a new Nigeria that promises to be the pride of Africa. Accept our deepest sympathies on the death of your bosom friend the late President Umaru Musa Yar’adua. By the grace of God you will succeed.
We sincerely thank the President of ECOWAS for sending a high powered representative in the person of Dr. (Mrs.) Adrienne Diop, Commissioner of Human Development ECOWAS, Secretariat.
Our sincere appreciation also goes to the distinguished members of the National Assembly, for their tireless efforts and interest in moving the sector forward.
Our gratitude also goes to the Hon. Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed for the drive and passion through bringing new ideas, initiatives and vigour towards the repositioning of the culture and tourism sector of our economy, as manifested in the packaging and presentation of AFAC Expo 2010.
We cannot also forget to thank our dear Permanent Secretary, Alh. S. B. Ozigis, OON, mni who has always shown deep interest in all matters relating to culture.
We sincerely thank our sister African countries, and all other countries of the world who in solidarity and shared bond of African brotherhood are participating in this event that is designed primarily to showcase the African treasures to the world.
We place on record our appreciation to all participants from the States of the Federation and the FCT, the Local Government Areas, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Community Based Organization (CBOs), Artists glee, Nigeria Chambers of Commerce and Industry, and all other stakeholders that have made this event a reality.
We say a big thank you to all our Special Guests for your presence. We urge you to be with us for the remaining part of the programme.
We salute the members of the 4th estate of the realm for their partnership and solidarity. I want to thank you for the publicity that AFAC Expo 2010 has enjoyed so far and to further request you to ensure that you give maximum publicity to every sector of the Expo with a view to projecting the African Arts and Crafts industry appropriately to our advantage. This is what this event is aimed at achieving and as our partners in progress we must all endeavour to ensure that we do not fail in this onerous task.
I thank the members of the Board, Management and Staff of the National Council for Arts and Culture for the dexterous way AFAC Expo 2010 has been packaged, and urge you to aspire to surpass this feat in subsequent editions.
I invite you all to enjoy the exciting moments of AFAC Expo 2010, and don’t forget that it is only your privileged patronage that can sustain this market.
I thank you all for coming and God bless.
Let me begin by thanking the Almighty God for his travelling mercies and guidance in the course of our various journeys to witness this historic event, the 3rd African Arts and Crafts Expo.
I place on record my profound gratitude to Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, President, Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for his love and commitment to the development of the culture and tourism industry in Nigeria, and the renewed vigour his Excellency is employing to the diversification and growth of our national economy. This has informed a multi-sectoral approach to the challenge of nation building and promises to elevate our country to the big league of the 20 largest economies of the world by 2020. Mr. President, we thank you for your commitment to the building of a new Nigeria that promises to be the pride of Africa. Accept our deepest sympathies on the death of your bosom friend the late President Umaru Musa Yar’adua. By the grace of God you will succeed.
We sincerely thank the President of ECOWAS for sending a high powered representative in the person of Dr. (Mrs.) Adrienne Diop, Commissioner of Human Development ECOWAS, Secretariat.
Our sincere appreciation also goes to the distinguished members of the National Assembly, for their tireless efforts and interest in moving the sector forward.
Our gratitude also goes to the Hon. Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed for the drive and passion through bringing new ideas, initiatives and vigour towards the repositioning of the culture and tourism sector of our economy, as manifested in the packaging and presentation of AFAC Expo 2010.
We cannot also forget to thank our dear Permanent Secretary, Alh. S. B. Ozigis, OON, mni who has always shown deep interest in all matters relating to culture.
We sincerely thank our sister African countries, and all other countries of the world who in solidarity and shared bond of African brotherhood are participating in this event that is designed primarily to showcase the African treasures to the world.
We place on record our appreciation to all participants from the States of the Federation and the FCT, the Local Government Areas, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Community Based Organization (CBOs), Artists glee, Nigeria Chambers of Commerce and Industry, and all other stakeholders that have made this event a reality.
We say a big thank you to all our Special Guests for your presence. We urge you to be with us for the remaining part of the programme.
We salute the members of the 4th estate of the realm for their partnership and solidarity. I want to thank you for the publicity that AFAC Expo 2010 has enjoyed so far and to further request you to ensure that you give maximum publicity to every sector of the Expo with a view to projecting the African Arts and Crafts industry appropriately to our advantage. This is what this event is aimed at achieving and as our partners in progress we must all endeavour to ensure that we do not fail in this onerous task.
I thank the members of the Board, Management and Staff of the National Council for Arts and Culture for the dexterous way AFAC Expo 2010 has been packaged, and urge you to aspire to surpass this feat in subsequent editions.
I invite you all to enjoy the exciting moments of AFAC Expo 2010, and don’t forget that it is only your privileged patronage that can sustain this market.
I thank you all for coming and God bless.
GOODWILL MESSAGE OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE ECOWAS COMMISSION, DELIVERED BY COMMISSIONER FOR HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND GENDER, ON THE OCCASION OF THE 3rd AFR
Your Excellency, The President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,
Honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation of Nigeria, and other Colleague Ministers here present,
Your Excellencies, Ambassadors and other Members of the Diplomatic Corps,
International Communities here present,
Distinguished Invited Guests,
Dear Participants,
Gentlemen of the Press,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I bring you greetings from the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Ambassador Victor Gbeho and his Vice Mr. Somda Jean de Dieu; and I am particularly happy to be here in your midst today, at this joyful occasion of the 3rd African Arts and Crafts Expo (AFAC), holding in Abuja, the beautiful capital city of Nigeria.
Nigeria is endowed with a rich cultural tradition and is a tapestry of people of unique creative origin which is evident in their music, arts and crafts, literature, costume, films etc.
Since culture by its nature, is all encompassing and social integration is anchored on the cultural orientation and dynamics of a people, it is so important to organize these cultural events because they create the enabling environment for mass participation and artistic expression in its multidimensional varieties. Furthermore, cultural events foster the development of the artistic and cultural potential of creators which give fresh impetus and prestige to their work.
I therefore congratulate the Government and people of Nigeria, and especially the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation under whose auspices the National Council for Arts and Culture operate, for its determination to host cultural events of this magnitude that contribute to regional development and integration.
We are all aware of the pivotal role that culture plays in the development of modern societies. We were all guilty of the period when culture was relegated to the background in our development endeavours and the resultant negative effects of that action. Thank God the world has woken up to the realization that Culture is a fundamental dimension that is intrinsic to national and global development. In other words, we are now conscious of the fact that culture must be given its proper place as the centre to which all developmental efforts should hinge. This is because when a man is severed from his cultural roots, that man has lost his identity and will be groping for direction like someone in darkness, one without a foundation.
It is for this reason that ECOWAS Authorities place a premium on Culture by making Cultural promotion one of the priority areas, and as such, began to invest in it early. Thus one sector in which community citizens can be said to have excelled is in their cultural orientation.
For example, the ECOWAS Prize for Excellence instituted in 1992, is aimed at promoting research and creativity. The prize which is awarded every two years is a reward for any individual or institution that has excelled in the fields of Arts and Culture, Science and Technology; and in any other areas that would contribute positively to the image and prestige of the Community by making meaningful and significant contribution to development and to strengthening the regional integration process.
The 5th Edition of the Prize, of which Nigeria participated, was on "Regional Cultural Events" of ECOWAS Member States. This involved the presentation, by each country, the most important cultural events which are held regularly with the participation of other ECOWAS Member States and three winners emerged from Nigeria for which the first second and third prizes were:
- THE ABUJA CARNIVAL
- THE ARUGUNGU FISHING FESTIVAL, and
- THE CALABAR CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL
Thus, borne out of the fact that West Africa has been proven to have essential assets and creativity that could translate into immense cultural" wealth, our men and women of culture, whether they are musicians, painters, sculptors, writers, film makers or dancers, have a reputation for creativity which has transcended regional boundaries. Their creations provide an open valve for the development of our rich cultural industries for marketability, revenue generation and financial gains. These further translate into creating employment and contribute to poverty eradication, which it is hoped will eventually lead to the economic emancipation of our people as envisioned by our Founding-fathers.
From what I see here, I am convinced that our gathering on this 3rd African Arts and Crafts Exposition (AFAC), is due to the respect that we have for each other's differences and cultural approach and preferences. This is one of the qualities of Culture. I also believe that AFAC has already established itself as a key event at an appropriate time and would create the necessary bond between people of diverse cultural heritage, through the interaction and exchange of ideas, open business opportunities, harness tourism potentials, promote unity and the culture of peace. It would also create a sense of wellbeing, a feeling of peace with oneself, with others and with one's environment.
For this reason I encourage and support your endeavors, so that together we can make an impact not only in the economic and social development of our countries and community, but of Africa; and by so doing, requite a legacy for generations yet unborn. I thank you for your kind attention.
Honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation of Nigeria, and other Colleague Ministers here present,
Your Excellencies, Ambassadors and other Members of the Diplomatic Corps,
International Communities here present,
Distinguished Invited Guests,
Dear Participants,
Gentlemen of the Press,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I bring you greetings from the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Ambassador Victor Gbeho and his Vice Mr. Somda Jean de Dieu; and I am particularly happy to be here in your midst today, at this joyful occasion of the 3rd African Arts and Crafts Expo (AFAC), holding in Abuja, the beautiful capital city of Nigeria.
Nigeria is endowed with a rich cultural tradition and is a tapestry of people of unique creative origin which is evident in their music, arts and crafts, literature, costume, films etc.
Since culture by its nature, is all encompassing and social integration is anchored on the cultural orientation and dynamics of a people, it is so important to organize these cultural events because they create the enabling environment for mass participation and artistic expression in its multidimensional varieties. Furthermore, cultural events foster the development of the artistic and cultural potential of creators which give fresh impetus and prestige to their work.
I therefore congratulate the Government and people of Nigeria, and especially the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation under whose auspices the National Council for Arts and Culture operate, for its determination to host cultural events of this magnitude that contribute to regional development and integration.
We are all aware of the pivotal role that culture plays in the development of modern societies. We were all guilty of the period when culture was relegated to the background in our development endeavours and the resultant negative effects of that action. Thank God the world has woken up to the realization that Culture is a fundamental dimension that is intrinsic to national and global development. In other words, we are now conscious of the fact that culture must be given its proper place as the centre to which all developmental efforts should hinge. This is because when a man is severed from his cultural roots, that man has lost his identity and will be groping for direction like someone in darkness, one without a foundation.
It is for this reason that ECOWAS Authorities place a premium on Culture by making Cultural promotion one of the priority areas, and as such, began to invest in it early. Thus one sector in which community citizens can be said to have excelled is in their cultural orientation.
For example, the ECOWAS Prize for Excellence instituted in 1992, is aimed at promoting research and creativity. The prize which is awarded every two years is a reward for any individual or institution that has excelled in the fields of Arts and Culture, Science and Technology; and in any other areas that would contribute positively to the image and prestige of the Community by making meaningful and significant contribution to development and to strengthening the regional integration process.
The 5th Edition of the Prize, of which Nigeria participated, was on "Regional Cultural Events" of ECOWAS Member States. This involved the presentation, by each country, the most important cultural events which are held regularly with the participation of other ECOWAS Member States and three winners emerged from Nigeria for which the first second and third prizes were:
- THE ABUJA CARNIVAL
- THE ARUGUNGU FISHING FESTIVAL, and
- THE CALABAR CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL
Thus, borne out of the fact that West Africa has been proven to have essential assets and creativity that could translate into immense cultural" wealth, our men and women of culture, whether they are musicians, painters, sculptors, writers, film makers or dancers, have a reputation for creativity which has transcended regional boundaries. Their creations provide an open valve for the development of our rich cultural industries for marketability, revenue generation and financial gains. These further translate into creating employment and contribute to poverty eradication, which it is hoped will eventually lead to the economic emancipation of our people as envisioned by our Founding-fathers.
From what I see here, I am convinced that our gathering on this 3rd African Arts and Crafts Exposition (AFAC), is due to the respect that we have for each other's differences and cultural approach and preferences. This is one of the qualities of Culture. I also believe that AFAC has already established itself as a key event at an appropriate time and would create the necessary bond between people of diverse cultural heritage, through the interaction and exchange of ideas, open business opportunities, harness tourism potentials, promote unity and the culture of peace. It would also create a sense of wellbeing, a feeling of peace with oneself, with others and with one's environment.
For this reason I encourage and support your endeavors, so that together we can make an impact not only in the economic and social development of our countries and community, but of Africa; and by so doing, requite a legacy for generations yet unborn. I thank you for your kind attention.
REMARKS BY HON. MINISTER TOURISM CULTURE AND NATIONAL ORIENTATION AT AFAC 2010 OPENING CEREMONY
REMARKS BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER TOURISM, CULTURE AND NATIONAL ORIENTATION, ALHAJI ABUBAKAR SADIQ MOHAMMED AT THE OFFICIAL OPENING CEREMONY OF THE 3rd AFRICAN ARTS AND CRAFTS EXPO (AFAC) 2010, ABUJA NIGERIA ON THURSDAY 3rd JUNE, 2010 AT THE OLD PARADE GROUND AREA 10, GARKI, ABUJA BY 12 NOON.
Protocol
It is with great delight that I welcome our Special Guest of Honour, His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, President Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria ably represented by the Hon. Minister of Special Duties, Navy Captain Omoniye Caleb Olubolade rtd.
It is also with great delight that I welcome our distinguished members of the National Assembly and of specific mention are Senator Dahiru Gassol and Rt. Hon. KGB Oguakwa, Chairman Senate and House Committees on Culture and Tourism.
Members of the diplomatic corps, foreign and domestic participants, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, you are all welcome to the Official Opening Ceremony of AFAC 2010.
Mr. President Sir, on assumption of office I realized that there were great opportunities available from our arts and crafts industry that could be harnessed and developed to dovetail into the present Administration’s efforts at generating revenue from the non oil sector. Towards this we are taking some proactive measures aimed at repositioning the sector with a view to effectively deploy our cultural industries, to advantage.
I am happy to say that it is this challenge that has crystallized into this Expo, which seeks to explore, grow, develop, promote market and generally leverage our arts and crafts sector to enable use achieve optimal empowerment for our people, especially the rural populace.
Beyond the immediate, AFAC Expo will also promote import and export of African arts and crafts world-wide, sensitize investors as well as attract public, private partnership to the industry.
The event is being put together by the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), a parastatal of my Ministry with the full understanding, conviction and belief that AFAC Expo 2010 will not only act as a major catalyst but help to reposition, propel and galvanize the crafts sector in taking its rightful place by contributing positively to the growth of our national economy.
Africa has the comparative advantage and we should tap the resources of this Expo and other related efforts to grow and market the crafts industry of the Region which is also a platform for exchanging economic and socio-regional integration and cooperation which the African Union Charter seeks to promote.
I wish to assure all participants at this auspicious event that my Ministry through the support of Mr. President, will continue to work with all the stakeholders to reposition and develop the sector, such that Nigeria can soon join the league of nations that are tapping the huge and inexhaustible economic resources that abound from the Culture and Tourism Industry.
Surely the Expo based on the interest it is generating and the emerging promising prospects, for the economic growth and sustenance of Nigeria and indeed Africa has to be embraced by all and sundry.
May I conclude by thanking Mr. President for all the support he is giving the sector and particularly his support for the Expo and for directing the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to represent him. We are ever grateful and we assure His Excellency that we are more than ever before more determined in ensuring that the Culture and Tourism sector is repositioned towards addressing our current challenges such as the global economic recession, unemployment and youth restiveness.
Let me at this juncture congratulate the Governing Board, Management and staff of the National Council for Arts and Culture, the members of the Central Planning Committee, the various sub-committees and other stakeholders who in many ways contributed in making this event a reality.
On this note it is my pleasure and honour to invite our Special Guest of Honour, Mr. President, who is ably represented by Alh. Yayale Ahmed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to make his remarks and declare the 3rd African Arts and Crafts Expo AFAC 2010 open.
Thank you and God bless.
Protocol
It is with great delight that I welcome our Special Guest of Honour, His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, President Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria ably represented by the Hon. Minister of Special Duties, Navy Captain Omoniye Caleb Olubolade rtd.
It is also with great delight that I welcome our distinguished members of the National Assembly and of specific mention are Senator Dahiru Gassol and Rt. Hon. KGB Oguakwa, Chairman Senate and House Committees on Culture and Tourism.
Members of the diplomatic corps, foreign and domestic participants, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, you are all welcome to the Official Opening Ceremony of AFAC 2010.
Mr. President Sir, on assumption of office I realized that there were great opportunities available from our arts and crafts industry that could be harnessed and developed to dovetail into the present Administration’s efforts at generating revenue from the non oil sector. Towards this we are taking some proactive measures aimed at repositioning the sector with a view to effectively deploy our cultural industries, to advantage.
I am happy to say that it is this challenge that has crystallized into this Expo, which seeks to explore, grow, develop, promote market and generally leverage our arts and crafts sector to enable use achieve optimal empowerment for our people, especially the rural populace.
Beyond the immediate, AFAC Expo will also promote import and export of African arts and crafts world-wide, sensitize investors as well as attract public, private partnership to the industry.
The event is being put together by the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), a parastatal of my Ministry with the full understanding, conviction and belief that AFAC Expo 2010 will not only act as a major catalyst but help to reposition, propel and galvanize the crafts sector in taking its rightful place by contributing positively to the growth of our national economy.
Africa has the comparative advantage and we should tap the resources of this Expo and other related efforts to grow and market the crafts industry of the Region which is also a platform for exchanging economic and socio-regional integration and cooperation which the African Union Charter seeks to promote.
I wish to assure all participants at this auspicious event that my Ministry through the support of Mr. President, will continue to work with all the stakeholders to reposition and develop the sector, such that Nigeria can soon join the league of nations that are tapping the huge and inexhaustible economic resources that abound from the Culture and Tourism Industry.
Surely the Expo based on the interest it is generating and the emerging promising prospects, for the economic growth and sustenance of Nigeria and indeed Africa has to be embraced by all and sundry.
May I conclude by thanking Mr. President for all the support he is giving the sector and particularly his support for the Expo and for directing the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to represent him. We are ever grateful and we assure His Excellency that we are more than ever before more determined in ensuring that the Culture and Tourism sector is repositioned towards addressing our current challenges such as the global economic recession, unemployment and youth restiveness.
Let me at this juncture congratulate the Governing Board, Management and staff of the National Council for Arts and Culture, the members of the Central Planning Committee, the various sub-committees and other stakeholders who in many ways contributed in making this event a reality.
On this note it is my pleasure and honour to invite our Special Guest of Honour, Mr. President, who is ably represented by Alh. Yayale Ahmed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to make his remarks and declare the 3rd African Arts and Crafts Expo AFAC 2010 open.
Thank you and God bless.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Monday, June 7, 2010
AFAC 2010 Will Galvanize Crafts Sector towards Economic Growth – Minister
The Honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed, says AFAC Expo 2010 will not only act as a major catalyst, but will help to reposition, propel and galvanize the crafts sector in taking its rightful place by contributing positively to the growth of the nation’s economy.
Africa, the minister maintained, has the comparative advantage in arts and crafts and urged Africans to tap the resources of the Expo and other related efforts of the Federal Government to grow and maket the crafts industry of the region which he said, “is also a platform for exchanging economic and social- regional integration and cooperation which the African Union Charter seeks to promote.
“beyond the immediate, AFAC Expo will also promote import and export of African arts and crafts world- wide, sensitize investors as well as attract public private partnership to the industry” the minister said. He added that the Expo, based on the interest it is generating and the emerging promising prospects for the economic growth and sustenance of Nigeria and indeed Africa, has to be embraced by all and sundry.
Africa, the minister maintained, has the comparative advantage in arts and crafts and urged Africans to tap the resources of the Expo and other related efforts of the Federal Government to grow and maket the crafts industry of the region which he said, “is also a platform for exchanging economic and social- regional integration and cooperation which the African Union Charter seeks to promote.
“beyond the immediate, AFAC Expo will also promote import and export of African arts and crafts world- wide, sensitize investors as well as attract public private partnership to the industry” the minister said. He added that the Expo, based on the interest it is generating and the emerging promising prospects for the economic growth and sustenance of Nigeria and indeed Africa, has to be embraced by all and sundry.
President Endorses AFAC
AFAC Will Restore Past Glory of Crafts Industry – President
President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, has pledged his administration’s commitment to the annual African Arts and Crafts Expo (AFAC), given its potential for restoring the nation’s past glimpse, glamour, glory and of the crafts industry.According to the President, ‘this administration is poised to support every development effort aimed at stimulating growth, especially at the grassroots level to provide better life for our rural population, create wealth and strengthen our economy.
“The African Arts and Crafts Expo will restore the past glimpse, glamour, glory and influence of the crafts industry, make it a major player in our national economy and a significant contributor to the country’s foreign exchange earnings. It is worthy of note that Nigerian and African Arts and Crafts have continued to grow to perfection in techniques, design, finishing and packaging”.
He assured that the Federal government will continue to support and encourage all agencies of government, non- governmental organizations, Development Partners and private individuals to partner us in our efforts at rural transformation”.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
WELCOME TO (3rd) AFAC EXPO 2010
It is with great delight that I welcome our special Guest of Honour, His Excellency, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, President, Commander- In Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria ably represented by the Hon. Minister of Special Duties, Navy Captain Omoniyi Caleb Olubolade rtd.
It is also my great pleasure to welcome the ECOWAS President, Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambers, ably represented by Dr. Mrs Adrienne Diop, Commissioner of Human Development and Gender, ECOWAS Secretariat.
I welcome our distinguished members of Parliament in the persons of Senator Dahiru Bako Gassol and Rt. Hon . KGB Oguakwa - Senate and House Committees Chairmen on Culture and Tourism.
It is also my great honour to welcome our amiable Hon. Minister of Tourism, culture and National Orientation, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed and to express my profound gratitude to you sir, for your unflinching support toeards the organization of this laudable event. My warm welcome also goes to Alh. S. B. Ozigis, OON, mni- the Permanent Secretary- Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation. Similarly, I welcome Chief Ebenezer Babatope, OFR, Chairman, NCAC Governing Board and the other members of the Board here present.
In the same vein, I welcome Your Excellencies and members of the Diplomatic Corps, specifically the French Ambassador to Nigeria, who has in his entourage a 15-member delegation from Cameroon to participate at AFAC Expo 2010.
Our esteemed guests, leaders and members of delegation from Ghana, Niger, Chad, Benin, Mali, Senegal, Cameroon; you are welcome and we are delighted to have you in our midst. Participants from various states, Local Government Areas, NGOS, professional groups and associations as well as other stakeholders, we appreciate your presence to this very auspicious occasion.
Your Excellencies, distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, the National Council for Arts and culture (NCAC) has of recent initiated some programmes geared towards contributing to the efforts of the present administration in developing the non- oil sector of the economy. One of such programmes is the African Arts and Crafts Expo initiative. With the theme, “Growing the Rural Economy through the Crafts Industry”, the Expo 2010 seeks to explore, develop, market and generally leverage our rich and diverse crafts industry to contribute effectively in response ro Government’s efforts at job creation, youth empowerment and rural economic development.
The 10- day event in addition to showcasing the best of African Crafts Industry in Africa shall have a one-day Investment forum which is designed to provide and stimulate creative and intellectual discourse with a view to imparting the requisite knowledge on the huge potentials that abound in the crafts industry.
Once more, Our Special Guests of Honour, Your Excellencies, Leaders and members of foreign delegations, members of the Press, Ladies and Gentlemen, you are all welcome to the 3rd African Arts and Crafts Expo - AFAC 2010; wishing you all a rewarding experience.
Welcome address by Mr Mwajim Malgwi Maidugu, the Executive Director/CEO, National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) on the occasion of the Official Opening Ceremony of the 3rd African Arts and Crafts Expo (AFAC) at the Old Parade Ground, Area 10, Garki Abuja, Thursday 3rd June, 2010
It is also my great pleasure to welcome the ECOWAS President, Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambers, ably represented by Dr. Mrs Adrienne Diop, Commissioner of Human Development and Gender, ECOWAS Secretariat.
I welcome our distinguished members of Parliament in the persons of Senator Dahiru Bako Gassol and Rt. Hon . KGB Oguakwa - Senate and House Committees Chairmen on Culture and Tourism.
It is also my great honour to welcome our amiable Hon. Minister of Tourism, culture and National Orientation, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed and to express my profound gratitude to you sir, for your unflinching support toeards the organization of this laudable event. My warm welcome also goes to Alh. S. B. Ozigis, OON, mni- the Permanent Secretary- Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation. Similarly, I welcome Chief Ebenezer Babatope, OFR, Chairman, NCAC Governing Board and the other members of the Board here present.
In the same vein, I welcome Your Excellencies and members of the Diplomatic Corps, specifically the French Ambassador to Nigeria, who has in his entourage a 15-member delegation from Cameroon to participate at AFAC Expo 2010.
Our esteemed guests, leaders and members of delegation from Ghana, Niger, Chad, Benin, Mali, Senegal, Cameroon; you are welcome and we are delighted to have you in our midst. Participants from various states, Local Government Areas, NGOS, professional groups and associations as well as other stakeholders, we appreciate your presence to this very auspicious occasion.
Your Excellencies, distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, the National Council for Arts and culture (NCAC) has of recent initiated some programmes geared towards contributing to the efforts of the present administration in developing the non- oil sector of the economy. One of such programmes is the African Arts and Crafts Expo initiative. With the theme, “Growing the Rural Economy through the Crafts Industry”, the Expo 2010 seeks to explore, develop, market and generally leverage our rich and diverse crafts industry to contribute effectively in response ro Government’s efforts at job creation, youth empowerment and rural economic development.
The 10- day event in addition to showcasing the best of African Crafts Industry in Africa shall have a one-day Investment forum which is designed to provide and stimulate creative and intellectual discourse with a view to imparting the requisite knowledge on the huge potentials that abound in the crafts industry.
Once more, Our Special Guests of Honour, Your Excellencies, Leaders and members of foreign delegations, members of the Press, Ladies and Gentlemen, you are all welcome to the 3rd African Arts and Crafts Expo - AFAC 2010; wishing you all a rewarding experience.
Welcome address by Mr Mwajim Malgwi Maidugu, the Executive Director/CEO, National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) on the occasion of the Official Opening Ceremony of the 3rd African Arts and Crafts Expo (AFAC) at the Old Parade Ground, Area 10, Garki Abuja, Thursday 3rd June, 2010
Friday, June 4, 2010
BRIEF ON AFAC
In pre- colonial times, cultural industries played critical roles in fast tracking the growth of rural economies through the abundant array of crafts and ancillary industries that served ad adjunct to farming. These can be found in ivory, bronze, brass, and glass castings and leather works, textiles, basketry, etc produced in different parts of the country and distributed largely by itinerant traders in what the served as long distance trade.
These trades thrived significantly owing to the large patronage it enjoyed especially from royal personages and courts. Unfortunately, the disarticulation caused by both the advent of colonialism and subsequent discovery of oil relegated the once thriving industry to the background. It is based on the desire to recapture the very essence of this industry and to re-enact its wealth creation potentials that the Federal Ministry of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation through the National Council for Arts and Culture initiated the African Arts and Crafts Expo in Abuja, FCT, Nigeria.
Instituted in 2008, the first two editions had the theme - “Stimulating the Economic Growth Potentials of the Arts and Crafts Sector”. The Expo was largely designed to via this theme:
• re – energize the sector through a well coordinated plan of action that will attract African craftsmen and women
• serve as a forum for sharing ideas, exchange and refinement,
• attempt to create an organized market as outlet for the sales of these crafts
It also afforded the relevant government agencies the opportunities of information sharing with various producers. More importantly, it became a forum for the financial service sector and practitioners to bridge the gap in obtaining investment support funds that will further boost the Small and Medium Enterprise development programme.
The successes of the first two editions therefore inspired the choice of the theme of the third edition: “Growing the Rural Economy through the Crafts Industry”. The intention is that in implementing this theme, the Expo will serve as a way of building on the progress recorded as well as perfecting and tightening every loose end observed in the first two editions with a view to making Nigeria and indeed Africa a tourism destination of the world.
Africa indeed has abundant reservoir of Crafts products and practitioners. If properly harnessed, they can become sources of employment and wealth creation. Conservative estimates indicate that over 80% of the total population of Africa are rural dwellers who engage in farming along with various forms of crafts production including metal crafts, pottery, carving, textile, weaving, spinning, embroidery, leather works, calabash decorations, blacksmithing, bronze and brass casting, tie and dye, etc. these constitute major aspects of our rural industries.
Indeed any major development initiative that is designed to be sustainable cannot afford to neglect this sector, because it is second only to agriculture in possibilities for job creation and holds the key to a sustainable technology and development revolution.
These trades thrived significantly owing to the large patronage it enjoyed especially from royal personages and courts. Unfortunately, the disarticulation caused by both the advent of colonialism and subsequent discovery of oil relegated the once thriving industry to the background. It is based on the desire to recapture the very essence of this industry and to re-enact its wealth creation potentials that the Federal Ministry of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation through the National Council for Arts and Culture initiated the African Arts and Crafts Expo in Abuja, FCT, Nigeria.
Instituted in 2008, the first two editions had the theme - “Stimulating the Economic Growth Potentials of the Arts and Crafts Sector”. The Expo was largely designed to via this theme:
• re – energize the sector through a well coordinated plan of action that will attract African craftsmen and women
• serve as a forum for sharing ideas, exchange and refinement,
• attempt to create an organized market as outlet for the sales of these crafts
It also afforded the relevant government agencies the opportunities of information sharing with various producers. More importantly, it became a forum for the financial service sector and practitioners to bridge the gap in obtaining investment support funds that will further boost the Small and Medium Enterprise development programme.
The successes of the first two editions therefore inspired the choice of the theme of the third edition: “Growing the Rural Economy through the Crafts Industry”. The intention is that in implementing this theme, the Expo will serve as a way of building on the progress recorded as well as perfecting and tightening every loose end observed in the first two editions with a view to making Nigeria and indeed Africa a tourism destination of the world.
Africa indeed has abundant reservoir of Crafts products and practitioners. If properly harnessed, they can become sources of employment and wealth creation. Conservative estimates indicate that over 80% of the total population of Africa are rural dwellers who engage in farming along with various forms of crafts production including metal crafts, pottery, carving, textile, weaving, spinning, embroidery, leather works, calabash decorations, blacksmithing, bronze and brass casting, tie and dye, etc. these constitute major aspects of our rural industries.
Indeed any major development initiative that is designed to be sustainable cannot afford to neglect this sector, because it is second only to agriculture in possibilities for job creation and holds the key to a sustainable technology and development revolution.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
AFAC Roll Call Swells!
The roll call of countries and other participants attending AFAC 2010 swells by the day. Some of these participants include:
Countries
• Ghana
• Niger
• Cameroun
• Benin
• Chad
• Senegal
• Mali
• Gabon
States
• Kogi
• Kwara
• Katsina
• Jigawa
• Fct
• Delta
• Kano
• Plateau
• Sokoto
• Osun
Local Government Areas (LGAs)
• Ede South LGA
• Plateau LGA
• Gwagwalada Area Council
Institutions
• Centre for Black and African Arts and Culture (CBAAC)
• Society for Nigerian Artists (SNA)
• Kaduna State Polytechnic
• Kwara State Tourism Board
• Darakulchi International organization
• University of Jos
• National Council for Arts and Culture
Non-Governmental Organizations
• Dajo Pottery
• Silk Culture
• Muburo Booksellers
• A.B.U. Textiles
• Riboma Global
• Yemi Africana
• Akamo Chinyere
• Senator Clothing
• DAZEU ‘B’ Nigeria Limited
• Nkechi Udegbe
• Gentinuel Investments
• Mine Innovation
• Mororo Arts
• Alflo Fashions
• PATS Aromatherapy
• Oak Fashions
• Classique Bedline
• MOA Nigeria
• Makodan Functions
• Awlas Creations
• Lampard
• GHO Abola
• Jok Afrik
• Frank Ezinwa
• Women Affairs Lagos
• Lintower Nigeria
• Sheffiu Alhassan
• Crafts Gate
• NIFAD
• RESO Africa
• Chi Augustin
• Golden Giant Industrial Ltd
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
AFAC 2010 Roll Call
AFAC gets bigger and bigger every year. Some of the countries that have indicated interest to particpate this year include:
- Kenya
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Ghana - Head of Delegation: Executive Director, Ghana Export Promotion Council and 10 craft organizations and their officials
- Argentina - 2 Government officials and a crafts man
- Niger Republic - Head of delegation: Issaka Amoud, Director of Promotion of Artisans Ministry of Artisans and Tourism
- Cameroun - A delegation od 3 Ministers, officials and aides and 19 craftsmen and women
- Algeria
- Mali - A delegation of 6 craftsmen ( arrived already)
- Senegal - Delegation of 21 craftsmen and women; (16 have arrived)
- Burkina Faso
- Benin Republic
- The Representative of African Union (AU)
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
AFAC 2010 Investment Forum
In keeping with her tradition since inception, AFAC 2010 will feature a very essential component - an Investment forum.
The intent of the Investment forum is to
Venue: Media Center, Radio House, Area 10, Garki Abuja
Time: 10:00am
Resource Persons
Keynote Speaker: Prof. Ben Ekanem
Topic: Growing Rural Economy Through the Crafts Industry: A Vector for Poverty Alleviation and Wealth Creation.
ii. Speaker: Dr. Bello Ayuba ( University of Abuja)
Topic: Marketing Nigerian Craft Industry
Discussants:
The intent of the Investment forum is to
- stimulate creative and intellectual discourse around the theme of each edition;
- examine current issues and challenges in the field of arts and crafts;
- propose recommendations for better and smoother practice in the field.
Venue: Media Center, Radio House, Area 10, Garki Abuja
Time: 10:00am
Resource Persons
Keynote Speaker: Prof. Ben Ekanem
Topic: Growing Rural Economy Through the Crafts Industry: A Vector for Poverty Alleviation and Wealth Creation.
ii. Speaker: Dr. Bello Ayuba ( University of Abuja)
Topic: Marketing Nigerian Craft Industry
Discussants:
- Levi O'Bien Yakubu MON (Dajo Pottery) Makurdi
- Alhaji Aliyu Umar - former Executive Director/ CEO, Niger State Council for Arts and Culture.
- Executive Secretary, Nigerian Export Promotion Council, Abuja.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
So what is this AFAC ?
AFAC means African Arts and Crafts Expo. It is a program of the National Council for Arts and Culture ( NCAC).
It's objectives include the following :
* to promote import/export business of African arts and crafts to buyers worldwide and showcase some aspects of African Cultural Heritage.
* to impact requisite knowledge of import/export guidelines to Arts and Crafts producers and marketers
* to sensitize investors on the need to invest in the Arts and Crafts sector, as a way of encouraging enterprise development and export oriented production
* to establish an African International Arts and Crafts marketplace in Nigeria
* to promote cultural tourism in Africa and Nigeria as a viable investment and tourism destination
* to attract international investment in line with government's development agenda
* to promote regional unity and integration in line with the African Union(AU) Charter.
It holds annually in Abuja, the Federal Capital of Nigeria and this year's edition,which is the third,will hold from May 28 to June 10,2010.
It is expected to attract participation from sister African countries,the 36 states of the Nigerian Federation and the FCT,774 Local Government Areas of Nigeria,blue chips companies,investors and financial service providers.
It's objectives include the following :
* to promote import/export business of African arts and crafts to buyers worldwide and showcase some aspects of African Cultural Heritage.
* to impact requisite knowledge of import/export guidelines to Arts and Crafts producers and marketers
* to sensitize investors on the need to invest in the Arts and Crafts sector, as a way of encouraging enterprise development and export oriented production
* to establish an African International Arts and Crafts marketplace in Nigeria
* to promote cultural tourism in Africa and Nigeria as a viable investment and tourism destination
* to attract international investment in line with government's development agenda
* to promote regional unity and integration in line with the African Union(AU) Charter.
It holds annually in Abuja, the Federal Capital of Nigeria and this year's edition,which is the third,will hold from May 28 to June 10,2010.
It is expected to attract participation from sister African countries,the 36 states of the Nigerian Federation and the FCT,774 Local Government Areas of Nigeria,blue chips companies,investors and financial service providers.
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