Cultural Book Launch: Yahaya Bello Calls for Renewed Commitment to Preservation of Nigeria’s Cultural Heritage and Promotion of Intellectual Dev
By Raphael Ekpang,
Abuja (Core Reporters) The former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has called for a renewed commitment to the preservation of Nigeria’s cultural heritage and the promotion of intellectual development. Bello made the call during a cultural book presentation on Saturday, January 31, 2026, in Abuja.
The event attracted high-level participation, including prominent leaders, diplomats, lawmakers, and cultural stakeholders, as well as representatives of state governors. Bello noted that the initiative, conceived only a few months ago, had quickly gained wide acceptance and support, reflecting a shared commitment to culture, heritage, and national cohesion.
Emphasizing that the gathering demonstrated inclusiveness and unity beyond political affiliations, Bello described it as a testament to collective responsibility in nation-building. He said the occasion was more than a literary event, noting that it touched on culture, heritage, youth development, and cultural policy.
Bello stressed that literature remains a powerful tool for preserving identity, values, and history, especially in a rapidly changing world. Drawing attention to the book presented at the event, “Adangara Legend of the Ori” by Stella Bello, he highlighted its strong cultural themes and its role in documenting and projecting indigenous heritage.
He insisted that Nigerian culture must not fade, noting that nations across the world continue to preserve their traditions alongside modern religious and social practices. Bello called for culturally relevant literary works to be integrated into Nigeria’s educational system, from primary to tertiary institutions, to help young people develop a deeper understanding of their roots.
Stressing that cultural education is essential for building confident, informed, and socially responsible citizens, Bello affirmed that despite political differences, Nigerians remain one people bound by shared history, culture, and aspirations. He commended individuals and institutions that consistently support cultural initiatives, regardless of party affiliation.
Bello showered encomium on the author while pledging that he and others would ensure that the book is widely accessible, both within Nigeria and internationally, including availability on global online platforms. This, he noted, would help project Nigerian culture beyond its borders while strengthening cultural awareness at home.
Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, Hon. Barr. Chuka Odom, a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), had called for a renewed commitment to the documentation, preservation, and promotion of the nation’s rich cultural heritage, as well as stronger support for intellectual property. Odom described the book “Adangara” as a significant contribution to global literary excellence, noting that the work goes beyond entertainment to serve as a powerful vehicle for cultural identity, historical consciousness, and intellectual inquiry.
The book, which explores Igbira culture through formal fiction, was praised for presenting the heritage of a people in a manner that is both authentic and globally relevant. According to him, “Nigeria’s development narrative must extend beyond politics to include culture, identity, and history.” He emphasized that documenting cultural heritage—both historical and contemporary—is essential to preserving national identity and strengthening Nigeria’s cultural brand on the global stage.
