JOURNEY THROUGH NIGERIAN ARTS
ADDRESS OF THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF NASARAWA STATE, HIS EXCELLENCY, ALH. (DR.) ABDULLAHI ADAMU (SARKIN YAKIN KEFFI) ON THE OCCASION OF THE ART EXHIBITION TITLED "A JOURNEY THROUGH NIGERIAN ARTS" AT MUSA YAR’ADUA CENTRE ABUJA IN COMMEMORATION OF THE COMMONWEALTH HEADS OF GOVERNMENT MEETING ON THE 9TH – 13TH DECEMBER, 2003
His Excellency, Alh. Atiku Abubakar, GCON
The Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria;
All other protocol observed.
It is a unique honour and privilege for me to address this eminent gathering of distinguished personalities from all walks of life this evening. A fine gentleman who lived amongst us died recently. He was respected for his belief in the Nigerian project, modesty, humility and painstaking pursuit of originality. These attributes–Nigerianess, modesty, humility and originality–are very significant in understanding the importance of this Art Exhibition, put together by SCALLINI GALLERY, in commemoration of the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting.
Nasarawa State, which I am privileged to govern, is very delighted to be associated with this event, which in all respects truly reflect the ideals that form the foundation of the present Administration in the State. We share in the goals of the organizers of this exhibition in showcasing our Artists and their works at every opportunity.
The theme of the Exhibition, "A JOURNEY THROUGH NIGERIAN ARTS" is also very apt at this time of the rediscovery of our Nigerian identity. The works of the Masters and our great heroes in this sector shall continue to be a source of inspiration for generations to come. As you will get to see, the works on display are a reflection of our Nigerian identity and an affirmation of our belief in the Nigeria project.
Every country has its own unique identity which includes its language, lifestyle, culture, etc, all of which is portrayed in its various works of art. No medium, perhaps, tells the story of a people better than its works of art. The arts are an expression of the peoples’ thoughts, technology and way of life. The arts help us to maintain our identity. Unfortunately, the reality is that most Nigerians, especially the youth, are beginning to imbibe or imitate cultures that tend to negate our own. Our understanding is that if this trend is not halted, Nigeria stands to loose her identity to the ways of life of alien civilizations. It would be a tragedy if today’s’ leaders do not make an effort to half this trend. We must all be proud of, and guard our Nigerian identity so that we can be strong contenders in the structuring of the global society. This is the driving force behind Nasarawa State’s support for the current exhibition and indeed anything that will advance positively on the Nigeria project.
INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES
I wish to use this unique opportunity to intimate you with the numerous investment opportunities in our state. Despite the developments witnessed in the State in the last four and a half years, Nasarawa State still yearns for investors. The Farin Ruwa Waterfalls is an investor’s delight any day. The tourism potentials of the State are limitless. We welcome genuine investors in any sector of the economy. We are always proud indeed, to announce our boundless endowments in tourism, solid minerals, agriculture, etc.
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, this is not an occasion for long speeches. I leave you with the clarion call to find ways and means of opening the creative impulses, which enable us as Nigerians to regain control of our individual and corporate destinies.
SCALLINI GALLERY by this singular act this evening has set the ball rolling. I urge our Artists not to rest on their oars, but continue to explore their ingenuity and creative talents in other to place Nigeria firmly on the Global Art map.
I wish to use this opportunity to thank the Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar (GCON), Governors, Honourable Ministers, Distinguished Members of the National and State Assemblies, Honourable Commissioners, members of the diplomatic corps and the Business community for finding time to attend this event. It is a great boost to the artists, and a worthwhile national venture.
I must also thank the organizers of this memorable event - SCALLINI GALLERY for leaving no stone unturned in ensuring the success of this exhibition. I commend them for nourishing us this evening with the highest form of inspiration.
I invite you to look around. Creativity and originality have found expression in the works on display this evening. As depicted by the works which we admire tonight, Nasarawa State puts its stamp on originality.
May Allah bless you all.
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