The Acting Executive Secretary, National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), Mr. Louis Eriomala, has assured traditional rulers in the country that the Institute will continue to give maximum support towards the sustenance of peace in the country and ensure harmonious relationship between communities, using culture as the tool.

The NICO boss stated this when he played host to traditional rulers and stakeholders in the culture sector at the 2018 edition of New Yam Festival/presentation of awards to Cultural Ambassadors in Enugu State, which held at the NnamdiAzikiwe Stadium, Ogui Road, Enugu on the 31st of October, 2018.

Represented by his Special Adviser, Mr. Law Ikay Ezeh, who is a Deputy Director, the Acting ES said if Nigerians can return to the culture of hard work, honesty, transparency, truth, faithfulness, commitment, dedication, respect, communality, wisdom, craftsmanship and fear of God, the level of moral decadence, ethnic, ethnic crises and insecurity currently bedevilling the nation will be a thing of the past.

Eriomala therefore pleaded with the traditional rulers to always partner NICO in the research and documentation of festivals which he said will enhance people’s knowledge of the country and help to bring about peaceful co-existence in the country.

While regretting the demise of societal values in the country as a result of intrusion and the influence of westernisation, the NICO Boss further challenged

other state and zonal offices of the Institute to emulate the Enugu office by organising and celebrating unique festivals in their various locations.

The highlight of the occasion was the ceremonial cutting of roasted yam performed by HRH Igwe, Ambassador L.O.C Agubuzu, Chairman, Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council who was accompanied by other traditional rulers in the State.

Guests at the occasion were thrilled with performances by a cultural troupe from the Federal Government College, Enugu and the famous Adamma Ngwo International Dance Troupe.

Corporate Affairs Unit

NICO, Enugu