 The Akiti State Governor, Dr. Kaya Defame, has revealed that the nation must take advantage of its cultural diversity to foster unity and economic development. The governor noted that the nation is blessed with vast cultural values and endowment, which he said with innovation could replace dependency on oil and chart a pathway for economic growth and youth empowerment. The report is presented from our studio. The 34th National Festival of Art and Culture is currently holding in Akiti State. Contingents from 36 states of the Federation arrived at the state to showcase the rich cultural values of their different states. This is just as the state governor, Kaya Defame, promised the continuous support for the cultural development of Akiti State and Nigeria at large. Defame declared the event open in Ado, Akiti. He also stressed that the cultural festival will provide them an opportunity to learn and enjoy the rich cultural, hospitality and goodwill this state is endowed with. The body of our national commitment, which has rested solely on the performance of our food oil in the international market, has continued to render the nation immobile. This calls for innovative and creative solutions. Investing in culture is crucial to the general development of any society. Culture impacts on economic growth by strengthening social values, creating trust which facilitates relationship and inspiring motivation that simulates entrepreneurship. The Director General, National Council for Art and Culture and President, World Crafts Council, African Region, Olusiagun Runsewa explained that NAFEST provides a platform for Nigerians from different ethnic backgrounds to showcase their unique cultural manifestation. Nigerian is one entity where unity and nothing can suppress us. NAFEST is a brand that came up after the civil war in 1970. And today, the civil society in Akiti is telling the story of the people united and being together. For me, it's a platform to embrace what unites us, that works for us. NAFEST is a brand that has changed the narrative of this country. Some people have told you some stories about Akiti, about Nassarawa, about Ogbe. But all of them are here. That's to tell the story to the world that this country, we are together. It added that it also brings to fore the rule of culture in national peace and harmony, as well as the vast opportunity in the cultural sector for job creation and economic empowerment. It called on the participants in all the competitive events to go into them, in the spirit of sportsmanship, adding that the essence of the events was to build friendship as brothers of the same nation. Subscribe to the channel and don't forget to hit the notification button so you get notified about fresh news updates.