Acceptance Speech by His Excellency, Alhaji (Dr.) Aliyu Akwe Doma, OON (Madauchin Doma), Executive Governor of Nasarawa State on the Occasion of his Investiture as Pillar of Abuja Carnival 2009, Lafia, Thursday, 17th September, 2009

PROTOCOL:

Having been so honourably conferred with this honour, I wish to invite this congregation to join me in welcoming and expressing my appreciation and gratitude to my colleagues in the culture and tourism sector, for not only making Nasarawa State the venue for the zonal pre-carnival workshop, but more importantly, for considering me worthy of the honour.

I am humbled that my modest contributions in the field of culture and tourism continue to be recognised and appreciated, nationally and internationally. It is significant to me, that today’s recognition is coming directly from my critical colleagues in the profession, whose preoccupation is the pursuit of excellence.

It is gratifying to note that the Abuja carnival has become an annual event of international dimension, and is growing from strength to strength. The carnival is an amalgam of the finest in our culture, our values, our norms, our history and our creativity. Indeed it is the epitome and embodiment of the richness and diversity of the cultural and creative heritage of the Nigerian people.

No doubt, this event has become one of Nigeria’s greatest tourist attractions. I urge that it should be nurtured and used to good advantage in our effort to develop a viable tourism industry in the country. The importance of the carnival in promoting national understanding, unity, values and integration can also not be overemphasised.

Ladies and gentlemen, to whom much is given, much is expected. I am fully aware of the enormity of the organisational arrangements for the carnival. Let me therefore, assure my colleagues that I would place myself at the service of the carnival and render any support that will be required of me for the success of this all-important event.

Perhaps at this juncture, I should stress that this Administration attaches great importance to the development of culture and tourism as an important aspect of the socio-economic development of our people. This is why we are making concerted efforts in providing necessary infrastructures for the development of tourism in the State, as well as the pursuit of excellence in our cultural sector.

Ladies and gentlemen, on this note, it is now my pleasure to formally accept the honour of being the Pillar of Abuja Carnival 2009. I dedicate this honour to Nasarawa State cultural contingents in appreciation of their outstanding performances and artistic excellence.

I wish the Abuja Carnival 2009 every success.

Thank you and God bless.