The Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Dr Hadiza Balarabe, has described the maiden Southern Kaduna Cultural Festival as a “platform” to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the people and promote cultural exchange.

Balarabe, who stated this while inaugurating the festival in Kafanchan on Thursday, added that event also provided an opportunity for the people of Southern Kaduna to tell their story.

“The festival is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Southern Kaduna and promote intercultural exchange among the people of the area.

“In a world that often emphasises our differences, events such as this provide us with an invaluable opportunity to recognise and celebrate our shared humanity.

Represented by Mrs Phoebe Yayi, Commissioner and Administrator of Kafanchan Municipal Authority, Balarabe called on the people of the area to embrace the spirit of unity and respect for one another.

“Let us recognise that diversity is not a challenge but a strength; a source of enrichment that has the power to propel us towards a brighter future,” she said.

The deputy governor expressed confidence that the festival would serve as a catalyst for economic growth in the state.

“I am confident that the festival will not only provide three days of fun but will serve as a catalyst for economic growth in the state.

“The tourism potential of Southern Kaduna is vast and events like this help to showcase our endowment to the outside world,” she added.

Earlier, Mr Ishaya Akau, chairman of Southern Kaduna Leadership Council, said that the festival was a big step towards uniting the people of Southern Kaduna.

Akau explained that the purpose of this festival was to bring together the diverse communities in the area to celebrate their shared history and values.

“It is an opportunity to rediscover our roots and forge stronger bonds amongst ourselves irrespective of religion, ethnicity, and social background.

“The event is also a platform to showcase the vast opportunities Southern Kaduna has to offer.

“The festival goes beyond mere display of cultural extravaganza. It is a platform to draw the attention of investors and companies as we showcase the vast opportunities our region has to offer,” he stated.

He called on prominent sons and daughters of the area to complement government’s efforts by investing in the development of Southern Kaduna.

The Chairman, Central Planning Committee, retired Rear Admiral Ferguson Bobai, enjoined the spectators to enjoy the array of activities lined up to mark the event.

Bobai said that the three-day festival was being held to celebrate Southern Kaduna’s rich cultural heritage, featuring cultural display, archery, football tournament, marathon race, fashion show, and beauty pageant.

Other activities, he said, would include traditional wrestling, a musical concert as well as awards to prominent Southern Kaduna sons and daughters.

According to reports, the opening ceremony was followed by a cultural display from over 20 out of the 57 ethnic nationalities in Southern Kaduna.