By Ikenna Osuoha
Parents and teachers in Abuja have identified culture as not just a tool for national identity but a driving force for national unity and stability.
The Chairperson, Parents Teachers Association (PTA), New Capital School, Dr Rebecca Godwin-Isaac, said this at the schools cultural day celebration in Abuja on Friday.
Godwin-Isaac, represented by the Vice Chairman , Mr Amenah Ogheneruemu, described culture as a unifying factor that has continued to build bridges across different ethnic groups in the country.
“From the Hausa-Fulani to the Igbo, the Yoruba, the Edo, the Tiv, the Ijaw, the Kanuri, and many more, every culture in Nigeria adds something beautiful to our national identity.
“Like threads in one fabric, we are woven together by purpose. Our colours may differ, but together they form a masterpiece,” she said.
According to her, I am a living example of that unity. I come from Edo State and I am married to a wonderful man from Zuru in Kebbi State.
She explained that her children are the perfect blend of both cultures and a daily reminder of the power of love and respect with culture as a bridge.
Godwin-Isaac called on parents and teachers to remain firm in the face of economic challenges, saying that with unity and hope, victory is assured.
“As we celebrate today, we must also reflect. These are challenging times for many families.
“The economy is tough and life can be uncertain, but we must never lose hope. Nigerians are strongest when we stand together. Unity gives us the courage to overcome hardship.”
She also urged parents to always teach kindness and love to the children, which according to her is greater than tribe.
“To our dear parents, let us teach our children that kindness is greater than tribe and that love is the true language of unity.
“To our wonderful teachers, thank you for shaping these young minds with patience and dedication.
“To our students, you are the heartbeat of Nigeria. Be proud of where you come from, but open your hearts to others.”
Godwin-Isaac admonished all to use the cultural day to reaffirm their commitment to national unity.
“As we dance, sing, and celebrate today, let us make a promise: to carry this spirit of togetherness beyond this event and into our daily lives.
“The Nigeria we dream of begins right here, in schools like New Capital, where every tribe, tongue, and tradition learns to live as one family.
“May our diversity continue to be our strength, and may our unity forever be our pride.”
Also Speaking, the Head teacher of the school, Ms Nneka Eze, emphasised the imperatives of using culture to inculcate discipline in the children.
Eze affirmed the capability of culture in not just driving unity but respect for elders and others.
“Just as those children are learning or rather showcasing their cultural heritage
“Discipline, respect is part of culture, when you go out there, in the Western world, discipline is lost.
“But in Nigerian culture, once we can hold our culture high, discipline becomes the order of the day.”
Eze said that culture has the capacity to transform children or anyone into good ambassors of discipline and respect.
“We are bringing back culture into New Capital School Asokoro to make sure that we can hold our culture, be able to be disciplined children.
“When they leave Nigeria, people will say, where are they coming from, Nigeria? So Nigeria is this disciplined , respectful.”
Also speaking, a pupil of the school, Jadidah Ishaku-Yusuf said that the togetherness of different cultures has brought immense joy to her.
“Today is cultural day and I feel happy to dance and are part of the dance.”
Another student of the school, Ndubuisi Umeh described the cultural day as a unifying occasion.
“It is very diverse and shows different cultures that came together to form Nigeria.
“We should embrace our culture and we should not hide them from anyone.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz
