The Honourable Minister of the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, High Chief Edem Duke, has lauded the government and the people of Kwara State, “the state of harmony,” for the courage taken to host NAFEST 2012.
Chief Duke made the commendation, Monday, 15 October, 2012, at the Cultural Centre, Ilorin, venue of the Gala Nite, organized by the Host State to usher in NAFEST opening ceremony, adding that the performance of the State Arts Council Troupe was wonderful.
The Secretary to the State Government, Kwara State, Alhaji Isiaka Gold, who represented the Executive Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, said the Government of Kwara State feels highly honoured, for the privilege to host this year’s National Festival for Arts and Culture (NAFEST 2012).
The SSG said the relative peace enjoyed in the Kwara State, state of harmony, must have prompted the acceptance of the request to host this year’s NAFEST, “the unity forum,” and wished all the contingents, a happy stay.
Also present at the gala night, were the State Commissioner for Social Development, Culture and Tourism, Alhaja Rahmat Adeshina Abaya, the 
Executive Director, National Council for Arts & Culture (NCAC), Mr. M.M Maidugu, Directors from the State Ministry of Social Development, Culture and Tourism, and other dignitaries.
The Kwara State Arts Council Troupe thrilled guests to a playlet that depicted the relevance needed for lasting peace and unity in Nigeria.
Naseer Saeed Aategba
NICO NCZ