Kano State Government has held its first-ever International Cultural Day, a vibrant celebration designed to showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage and reaffirm its status as a historic hub of commerce, Islamic scholarship, traditional arts, and craftsmanship.
Speaking at the opening ceremony held at the Coronation Hall, Government House, Kano, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf described the occasion as not only a tribute to the state’s illustrious past but also a strategic move to reposition culture and tourism as pivotal engines of economic growth and shared identity.
The Governor’s remarks were conveyed in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mustapha Muhammad, on Sunday.
Governor Yusuf emphasized his administration’s dedication to revitalizing the culture and tourism sector, pledging renewed investment to preserve Kano’s internationally acclaimed traditions.
“We are re-strategizing and re-prioritizing our investments in tourism to attract both national and international partnerships,” he stated.
He added that the government is channeling efforts into youth empowerment by training young people in key tourism-related areas such as traditional arts, crafts, tour guiding, and culinary heritage, enabling them to emerge as cultural entrepreneurs and ambassadors for Kano’s tourism potential.
The Governor also revealed ongoing collaborations with local investors and international cultural organizations to organize festivals, promote cultural exchange programs, and project Kano’s distinct cultural narrative to the global tourism audience.
In her address, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Aisha Lawan Saji, applauded the governor’s unwavering support for the sector, highlighting its significance in driving economic development and safeguarding cultural identity.
Representing the Emir of Kano, Malam Muhammadu Sanusi II, the Bauran Kano, Abbas Dalhatu, described the celebration as timely and called on the state government to establish a State Council for Arts and Culture to protect and promote Kano’s cultural heritage.
The maiden event featured an array of colorful activities, including traditional music and dance performances, culinary exhibitions, displays of cultural attire, and creative competitions, all designed to foster unity, peaceful coexistence, and cross-cultural understanding.
As part of the festivities, the state government also extended financial support to cultural and artisan associations across all 44 local government areas of Kano State.
