Obaseki partners centre on construction of Benin Cultural Village, assures policies to preserve Edo heritage

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has assured support for the construction of the Benin Cultural Village, being built by the Benin Cultural Heritage Centre (BCHC), reassuring that his government will sustain policies and reforms to preserve the state’s rich cultural heritage.

The cultural village, being constructed at the by-pass axis of Benin City, according to the BCHC, would have an art gallery to promote artefacts; a cultural centre; a research centre, and an area to produce and sell bronze.

Obaseki, who received the executives and members of the Benin Cultural Heritage Centre on a courtesy visit at the Government House, said his government is paying critical attention to the state’s cultural assets to boost social-economic activities in the culture and tourism sector.

The governor, represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Osaigbovo Iyoha, assured the support of the state government to the group, commending its efforts at promoting Benin culture and history amongst the people.

He noted, “We have travelled wide and have seen our great artworks and artefacts in Museums across the world. One would wonder about the great craftsmanship of Edo people centuries ago.

“You have come at the right time. We have huge plans for our history and cultural heritage as this administration has a lot to showcase, knowing it can drive our Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) in Edo State.

“Our governor is very passionate about our cultural heritage. We are working to ensure that the people know about their history and cultural heritage.”

The governor assured the BCHC that his administration will continue to support the Edo Summer School, organised by the centre to teach Edo children their indigenous language for free.

Earlier, the president of BCHC, Squadron Leader Ehi Ighile (Rtd), noted that the centre was established to revive the Benin culture, promote cultural heritage, teach the Benin language, as well as promote cultural festivals, fashion, songs, and arts, among others.

He said the centre last year trained over 2,900 children in Edo language in three local government areas of the State, adding “This year, we have made plans to train our children in Edo language for free in seven local government areas of the state.

“We have trained 300 teachers in Edo language and the government has employed them.”