Fesochukwu Jason
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has positioned culture as a key driver of tourism and economic growth in the Niger Delta, as it renewed calls for stronger investment in the region’s rich heritage assets.
This formed the focus of discussions at the Niger Delta Arts and Culture Expo held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where stakeholders highlighted the untapped economic potential of cultural industries across the region.
Speaking at the event, NDDC Managing Director, Samuel Ogbuku, said the preservation of cultural identity must go beyond celebration to include structured efforts that can generate jobs, attract tourism, and strengthen regional development.
Represented by Abasiandikan Nkono, Ogbuku noted that the Niger Delta’s diversity in music, dance, and traditional expressions offers significant opportunities for creative enterprise and international cultural exchange.
He described the Expo as more than a cultural gathering, but a strategic platform for showcasing the region’s heritage as a viable economic resource.
“What we are seeing here is not just culture on display, but a foundation for unity and economic opportunity. Our traditions remain a powerful force that can drive both identity and development,” he said.
The event, themed “Rhythm of the Niger Delta: Music, Dance and the Heartbeat of Our People,” featured performances and exhibitions from various ethnic nationalities, reflecting the region’s cultural depth and artistic richness.
Participants stressed that beyond entertainment, cultural preservation can play a critical role in youth engagement, job creation, and community development if properly harnessed.
In her remarks, Ambassador Amaba Ogbuku said cultural identity remains a defining force for communities, urging stakeholders to sustain efforts that protect and promote indigenous heritage in a rapidly evolving world.
She noted that culture serves as a unifying factor that connects people across generations and geographical boundaries.
Also speaking, the NDDC Director of Culture and Women Affairs, Ahunna Imoni, said the Expo underscores the importance of cultural continuity in shaping social cohesion and shared identity within the region.
Analysts say the renewed emphasis on culture aligns with broader efforts to diversify the Niger Delta economy beyond oil, with creative industries increasingly seen as a viable pathway for inclusive growth.
They add that sustained investment in cultural infrastructure, festivals, and creative talent development could position the region as a major cultural tourism hub in Nigeria and across Africa.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.