Gov. Simon Lalong of Plateau has decried the threat to cultural heritage in the country by globalisation.
The governor expressed the concern on Saturday during the annual cultural festival of Ilum O’Tarok, celebrated by the Tarok nation in Plateau, at the Langtang mini stadium, Langtang North Local Government Area .
“I must re-emphasise the need for continuous propagation and sustenance of our rich cultural heritage that is under threat by globalization.
“Many of our cultural practices are gradually being abandoned while our languages are fast disappearing by the day especially among our younger generation.
“This is a concern that I want the Tarok nation to take very seriously considering the fact that other tribes also face similar threats,” he said .
He commended the Tarok nation for the patriotism they displayed for their culture and tradition in every location they found themselves .
“ I am happy that the Ilum O’Tarok has taken the lead in this new vista of cultural renaissance in Plateau State.
“This is not surprising considering the patriotism and sense of pride with which all sons and daughters of Tarokland hold and display their culture and tradition wherever they find themselves.
“This is a good virtue that must be sustained at an event like this,” he said .
Lalong assured the Tarok nation of completing on going projects in their region saying the General Hospital at Mabudi in Langtang South local government and the Langtang Water Treatment Plant were completed .
He added that the Legacy project in Shishi would also be completed soon while the Gazum Road, Langtang-Garkawa Road and Kadarko Road would also be done.
The governor also commended the Tarok nation on their efforts to maintain peace and security in their area saying, the government was doing its best to end the activities of criminals and crises merchants in the state.
Speaking at the event, the Emir of Dass of Bauchi, Alhaji Usman Othman, stressed the need for peace, unity and harmony among the Tarok people as well as with its neighbours.
In his remarks , the National President of Ngwang Ishi O’Tarok, Amb. Nanpon Sheni, described the festival as a platform to appreciate their culture, while charting ways of addressing critical challenges in education, infrastructure, water, health and economic prosperity. (NAN)
