Otunba Runsewe

The National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), says the council is ready for the 10^th African Arts and Crafts (AFAC) expo that is expected to reposition the arts and culture sector.

Otunba Segun Runsewe, Director-General NCAC made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Saturday.

Runsewe said that the expo was part of fulfilling his pledge to unbundle the huge potential in the culture sector on assumption of office three months ago.

He said that sector could be used to strategically drive the process of economic diversification in line with the policy thrust of the present administration.

He said that the expo scheduled from Aug. 27 to Sept. 17, would not only reposition the sector, it would also benefit every participant that would be present.

The theme of the 2017 AFAC Expo is: “Culture: The Untapped Treasure’’.

“We have lined up some programmes that will be of benefit to everyone that will partake in this year’s expo.

He said that construction of booths for the exhibitors, the stage, the media room and other necessary facilities were all at completion stages.

“The massive construction and renovation works is ongoing at the site to affirm the essence that we are ready to give practical expression to the determination of elevating the exposition to an international standard.

He however commended National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for its partnership in providing every facility for safety.

“We now have a police post within the premises of the village for 24-hour security cover. This is the first time we have illuminated the entire village with flood lights.

“We are collaborating with some stakeholders in making this AFAC unique and memorable expo as we will feature unprecedented and memorable events, especially in packaging and delivery.

“There will be free eye test and eye glasses, free blood pressure test and Waist Circumference, popularly called (BMI), free skills acquisition and language training,’’ he said.

He said that the theme was carefully selected to draw attention to the vast opportunities in the sector.

He said that the attention would mobilise Nigerians to take advantage of the opportunities for personal empowerment and the economic development of the country.

The director-general said that the council had endorsed ‘Abahi’ hairstyle typically adorned by the Benue people of North-central Nigeria.

He affirmed that the beautifully styled hairdo would make a strong cultural statement during AFAC and stimulate the creativity of Nigerians.

He, however, appealed for the support of the mass media in a bid to ensure maximum media coverage of the event. (NAN)