Novena University V.C Reaffirms Commitment to National Unity, Cultural Preservation

Ogheneruona Tejiri, Kwale

Nigerians have been called upon to preserve their cultural heritage as well as strengthen national unity through practical engagement.

This call was made by Prof. Godwin C. Nduka, Vice Chancellor, Novena University, Ogume, near Kwale in Delta State during the institution’s 12th annual Nigerian People and Culture Day Carnival at the University’s Sports Complex, he said that the annual event is a demonstration of the country’s diversity and oneness.

Prof. Nduka disclosed that the event represents the practical aspect of the Nigerian People and Culture course taught at the institution, he stressed that theory and practice must complement each other.

The Vice Chancellor noted that the exercise, now in its 12th practical edition, demonstrates the importance of translating classroom knowledge into real-life experiences.

Prof. Nduka expressed gratitude to God for the favourable weather during the event, describing it as evidence of divine support for the programme.

He said that the various cultural groups participating in the carnival reflected the diversity that defines Nigeria nation, he affirmed that the country remains one united nation.

Prof. Nduka said the cultural exhibitions and performances offered participants and visitors opportunities to learn more about the nation’s rich traditions and values beyond entertainment.

He urged those who missed this year’s edition to attend subsequent celebrations with their friends, assuring them of a rewarding experience.

The Vice-Chancellor also disclosed that new features had been introduced to this year’s programme to deepen participants’ understanding of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

Earlier, Dr. Azuka Chegwe, Director, Directorate of General Studies (GST) of the University disclosed that the annual academic event serves as a practical extension of classroom learning and a platform for promoting national unity and preserving Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

Dr. Chegwe said the event marks 12 years of the University’s deliberate action in promoting national cohesion and reminding Nigerians that their differences are assets that can be woven into “the beautiful fabrics of our existence.”

Dr. Chegwe further disclosed that the programme complements one of the courses, GST 121, Nigerian People and Culture, offered by the Directorate of General Studies.

According to him, “this Cultural Day is the Practical Phase of that Course, GST 121. It moves learning from the classroom to realities and from that classroom to this arena”.

Dr. Chegwe explained that the event brings textbooks to life through dance, indigenous cuisines, languages and other cultural expressions, adding that the event remains relevant in an era of increasing globalisation and cultural interactions.

The Director, Directorate of General Studies noted that the programme promotes national unity, preserves Nigeria’s cultural heritage, develops students’ soft skills and provides an avenue to showcase the country’s rich diversity.

He commended lecturers in the department for their dedication and praised students for their creativity, commitment and sacrifices toward the success of the event.

He added, “as we complement our classroom work here today, I encourage you to learn, preserve and represent as ambassadors of our Nigerian culture.”

In his comments, HRH Job Darius, Chairman, Southern Ijaw Traditional Rulers Council commended the management of the University for the initiative, saying that the programme has significantly impacted the students.

HRH Darius said that the programme provides students with first-hand knowledge of the country’s diverse traditions that cannot be fully captured in textbooks, adding that the practical experience helps young Nigerians develop respect for cultures other than their own.

HRH Darius noted that cultural erosion poses a major threat to national identity in the digital age, he called on other institutions across the Niger Delta region and Nigeria to adopt similar programmes to preserve indigenous languages, customs and values before they are lost to globalization.

He called on government at all levels to support cultural education in schools through funding and policy.

The highlights of the occasion were traditional dances, spectacular cultural processions, and showcasing of unique customs and heritage through traditional attire, fashion exhibitions by various groups and the nation’s rich culinary heritage with an array of local foods and cuisines.