CBAAC, 26 francophone countries collaborate on cultural ties

By Zika Bobby

In a significant move to strengthen cultural ties between Nigeria and Francophone countries, Director-General of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC), Aisha Adamu Augie, met with ambassadors of Francophone group in Nigeria.

The meeting, held at the French Embassy, was attended by representatives of 26 countries, who pledged to partner with CBAAC on various programmes and activities.

Augie briefed the group on CBAAC’s mandate and significance as Nigeria’s foremost Pan-African cultural agency. Established after the 1977 Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC), she said CBAAC houses core collections and artefacts from the 59 participating black and African countries, including those from Francophone countries.

She outlined potential areas of collaboration to include the Road to FESTAC @ 50, commemoration of the historic festival, Pan-African Indigenous Skills Development Programme (PAID), a programme promoting indigenous skills development, international conference that will focus on African financial instruments and their role in African civilisation.

She emphasised the significance of the partnership, stating, “We are excited to collaborate with the Ambassadors of Francophone countries in Nigeria to promote cultural exchange and cooperation. This partnership will foster greater understanding and appreciation between our cultures and provide opportunities for economic growth and development.”

The Francophone Ambassadors Group, led by Bulgarian Ambassador, Yanko Yordanov, commended Augie for her efforts in promoting cultural excellence, as he expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, pledging to promote cultural exchange and cooperation between Nigeria and their countries.