Barclays Ayakoroma, the acting vice-chancellor of the University of Africa Toru-Orua, Bayelsa State, has put forward a visionary strategy for branding and exporting the nation’s cultural products.
In a statement released on Tuesday through his media aide, Tonye Yemolegha, Ayakoroma emphasized the pivotal role of increased exports in fortifying the nation’s earnings and gross domestic product (GDP).
He proposed an innovative approach that involves cultural rejuvenation, deliberate generational transfer of cultural talents, and substantial government investment to unlock the vast potential of cultural tourism.
The recent Annang Festival of Arts and Culture, held in Bayelsa State, served as a backdrop for the Acting VC’s call for a comprehensive transformation to enhance global competitiveness.
He stressed the need for a paradigm shift, viewing culture as not only a source of national pride but also as an economic driver.
Ayakoroma highlighted the importance of introducing entrepreneurial components to cultural initiatives, fostering sustainability and the expansion of the culture and arts sectors.
He underscored the significance of a robust cultural policy, urging a continuous review of Nigeria’s existing policy signed in August 1988 by then-Gen. Ibrahim Babangida.
Quoting Ayakoroma, he stated, “Culture is a vital component of national development as it is a tool for driving economic growth, social cohesion, peaceful coexistence, and political stability. We must, therefore, explore every channel to tap into it.”
The acting VC concluded by emphasizing the critical role of cultural policies in enhancing nationalism and unity within the country.
