The programme commenced with an opening prayer by Mal. Muhammad Anamuslim. This was followed by an address by Acting Zonal Coordinator of NICO North West Zone, Mal. Uthman Ibrahim Galadima. In his address Mal. Uthman Galadima emphasised that the purpose for establishing cultural clubs in secondary schools is to create awareness, with a view to instill in our youngsters keen interest in our indigenous culture. He affirmed that establishment of cultural clubs in our secondary schools has become imperative, considering the fact that examination malpractices, drug abuse, indecent dressing, cultism and promiscuity which facilitates the spread of HIV/AIDS are becoming the order of the day amongst our youths. This, he said, warrants the need for cultural reorientation.

Mal. Galadima disclosed that cultural clubs have been established in many secondary schools within Katsina metropolis and that the establishment of the cultural clubs in those schools has obviously impacted positively on the cultural club members. He said that the National Institute for Cultural Orientation is determined to promote national cohesion, integration, sustainable peace and consequent development through its programmes of sensitisation and reorientation. The Acting Zonal Coordinator also called on the members of the inaugurated cultural clubs to put in wholehearted commitment and be good ambassadors of NICO. While further highlighting the various activities of NICO, he urged the attendants of the event to participate in the on-going NICO Weekend Nigerian Indigenous Language Programme and the annual Indigenous Language Programme which is coming up later in August.

In her remark the principal of the school Hajiya Halima Yusuf Dikko lauded the NICO’s initiative of establishing cultural clubs and greatly appreciated the extension of such gesture to her school. She enjoined the club master and the members not to relent their efforts in keeping the established cultural club alive. The principal further pledged that her school would work hand in hand with NICO to preach peace and national integration among the various ethnic groups in the school in particular and Katsina state at large. However, she lamented a disturbing situation of seeing our culture as inferior to western culture by a considerable number of Nigerian youths.

The event was graced by the Acting Zonal Coordinator, NICO North West Zone and his members of staff; the Vice Principal, Family Support Programme Secondary School, Katsina and members of the school’s staff. The event featured various cultural performances such as dramas, cultural displays, playlets, recitations as well as a Dress Nigeria parade.

Corporate Affair Unit

North West Zone, Katsina