By Ahmed Mohammad Kano
Kano State Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring the dignity, pride and identity of the Kano people through cultural revival and creative enterprise, according to a statement by Governor’s Spokesperson Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
Governor Yusuf made this known while declaring open the maiden edition of the Kano Festival of Arts and Culture (KANFEST) on Saturday at the Kano Trade Fair Complex.
“In line with that commitment, our administration has embarked on several projects and programmes aimed at reviving Kano’s lost glory and safeguarding its enduring heritage,” Governor Yusuf stated.
KANFEST was conceived to celebrate Kano’s rich history, culture and creativity. “As we flag off KANFEST, let it serve as a platform to celebrate who we are – a proud people of history, culture and creativity,” he said.
Highlighting traditional institutions’ significance, Governor Yusuf announced an Executive Order mandating the Four Kano Emirates to organize Annual Durbar Festivals recognizing their historical and cultural importance.
“We are proud UNESCO inscribed Kano Durbar among World’s Intangible Cultural Heritages placing Kano globally reinforcing traditional institutions promoting peace, unity and cultural identity,” he added.
Governor Yusuf plans to support traditional craftsmen and artisans through modern empowerment and training. “Combining traditional knowledge with modern techniques, our artisans can compete globally,” he said.
“A people without culture are a people without identity,” Governor Yusuf maintained, determined to make Kano Nigeria’s cultural heartbeat and Africa’s pride.
Deputy Governor Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo described KANFEST as a platform for innovation, creativity and global visibility for Kano’s talents.
Emir of Kano Muhammad Sanusi II appreciated Governor Yusuf’s foresight reviving historic cultural celebration. Rwanda Ambassador Christoph Bazivar expressed delight describing KANFEST as a bridge promoting cultural understanding and cooperation.
