Let’s use our cultures for devt – Prof. Abdul Rahman

The Centre for Cultural Studies, Federal University of Lafia (FULafia), has successfully held its inaugural webinar event.

The theme of the event was: “Intercultural Relations, Hybridity and National Development.”

The Vice-Chancellor of FULafia, Professor Shehu Abdul Rahman, in his speech declaring the event open, said that cultural differences should be viewed as assets for improving global interpersonal relationships.

He said that cultural diversity can foster unity and national development, promote effective intercultural communication and resolve misunderstandings, emphasising that hybridity promotes peace, tolerance and progress.

Abdul Rahman commended the centre for organising the webinar, saying: “This webinar demonstrates FULafia’s commitment to promoting cultural understanding and national development through intercultural dialogue.”

In her welcome remarks, the convener of the webinar, Professor Zara E. Kwaghe, the Director, Centre for Cultural Studies, thanked the vice-chancellor for supporting innovative cultural dissemination approaches.

She described hybridity as a catalyst for development and interaction among people.

She expressed her gratitude to the presenters and all those who participated in the event.

In his presentation, Professor Yakubu Aboki Ochefu, the Secretary-General, Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities (CVCNU), described intercultural relations and hybridity as tools for societal development.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Partnerships, FULafia, Professor Samaila Usman Dakyes, who served as the discussant at the event, emphasised unity and intercultural affinity for national development.

Also, Dr Olagunju Idowu Lateef, the Secretary General, Nigerian National Commission of UNESCO, emphasised the importance of intercultural relations, calling for their alignment with UNESCO’s objectives.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics, Professor Aleruchi Chuku, stressed the need for effective intercultural communication.

Reacting to the presentations, the Honourable Commissioner of Information and Culture, Nasarawa State, Ibrahim Othman Agbolo, represented by Mrs. Gloria Ashikeni, expressed his dissatisfaction with the perception of culture as ancient and barbaric, emphasising its beauty and global recognition.