Minna — The Federal Government through the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation yesterday in Minna, Niger State reechoed the inherent wealth in the culture sub-sector.

Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Senator Jibril Bello Gada while declaring the 23rd edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST), close, said "the lessons of the festival are of special significance to all of us, especially in this era of global challenges."I wish to specifically challenge our youths to shun idleness and other vices which lead to criminal tendencies and to avail themselves of the job and economic opportunities that have good prospects in the culture and tourism sector."The theme of this year's edition:"Culture And The Challenges Of Our Time: Cultural Industries and Wealth Creation," the minister noted, has sensitized the consciousness of participants of the viable opportunities that abound in the creative industries.The host Governor, Dr. Muazu Bagangida Aliyu, whose speech was delivered by his deputy, said the State was prepared to do more in hosting similar national event in its quest to be one of the three leading economies by 2020.

He said the State has huge tourism assets which his administration was committed to developing.Chief Executive of National Council for Arts and Culture and the Festival Director, Mr. Mwajim Malgwi Maidugu, said the cultural fiesta achieved its objective, given the number of participating States, the involvement of other State governors and the nation's First Lady as well as the quality of cultural materials exhibited by the 35 States and FCT.Nasarawa State emerged the overall winner of the festival, while Niger came second. Ogun State bagged the third position while Cross River and Delta States, Gombe and FCT were fourth and fifth respectively.