The Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, will be the Commissioner of the Nigerian Pavilion at the 60th International Art Exhibition organised by La Biennale di Venezia.
The governor was nominated by the Federal Government (FG) to lead the Nigerian delegation scheduled to take place in the Veneto region of Italy from 16 to 18 April 2024.
In a statement made available on Saturday, FG described the tour as a landmark success in promoting rich culture, arts and heritage and advancing the economic potential of tourism in Edo State.
The statement read, “Edo State and its capital city, Benin City, have been a main heritage and cultural artistic hub in Nigeria for centuries and Governor Godwin Obaseki has a strong desire to support arts and culture.
“The government of Edo State is planning to develop a cultural district in the centre of Benin City. The cultural hub is intended to span a large expanse of land that will bring in new structures and also accommodate existing ones such as the National Museum Benin City. The development of the cultural district is intended to expand the cultural and creative industries to attract tourists to the country.
“This is the very first time a sub-national is leading the Nigerian delegation to such an event. The Veneto region is about the wealthiest and most productive region in Italy with one of the highest gatherings of people of African descent”.
The partnership, according to the organisers, will further facilitate cooperation in technical and vocational training, advance opportunities in the agricultural sector, enhance Information Technology capacity, promote tourism, increase economic opportunities in the textile industry and promote social and cultural relationships between Nigeria and Italy.
