In celebration of the holy month of Ramadan, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has urged Muslim and Christian faithful to embrace religious and ethnic tolerance to ensure peace and economic prosperity of the nation.
Speaking Wednesday night in Abuja, during a ‘Ramadan Iftar’ (breaking of fast) she hosted for stakeholders, ministry officials and the media , Musawa said tolerance and understanding are needed for unity, peace and development of the country, especially as fasting Muslims get ready for Eid and Christians prepare to celebrate Easter.
She said Nigeria’s cultural diversity is an asset that should be treasured by promoting understanding, respect, and acceptance to build a society where everyone feels valued and included, regardless of their heritage.
Musawa said the ministry is working towards ensuring that Nigeria leverages its rich cultural and creative space to create wealth for citizens, especially its teeming youth.
She said besides its economic relevance, the culture and creative sector was a veritable tool for building national cohesion and stability and urging industry stakeholders to embark on initiatives that foster positive relationships and unity among Nigerians with different cultures, religions, and lifestyles.
She said: “As a Nigerian and being a woman of faith, this season is very special for me as both Muslim and Christian faithful are having a time of spirituality.”