As part of efforts to boost cultural tourism and the local economy, the Executive Chairman of Bonny Local Government Area, Rivers State, Hon. Abinye People on Monday, approved and disbursed N13.5 million as cultural support grants to 32 registered cultural clubs in the kingdom.
The colourful ceremony, held at the Government Lodge, Bonny, saw four leading clubs – Okwe-Mma, Siri, Abaji (Finima), and Oku Cultural Clubs – each receiving N1 million, while others got between N250,000 and N750,000 depending on their category.
Other beneficiaries include Sipiri Obiri Cultural Club of Bonny (N750,000), Oru Buko, Sibi, Idadua and several others who received between N250,000 and N500,000 each.
Speaking while presenting the cheques, Hon. Pepple said the initiative was part of his administration’s deliberate policy to preserve Bonny’s rich cultural heritage, promote tourism, and stimulate economic activities during the yuletide and beyond.
“Culture and tourism are critical pillars of economic growth and community development in Bonny Kingdom. This support fund is a demonstration of our unwavering commitment to strengthening our cultural institutions and ensuring that this year’s Christmas and New Year celebrations are vibrant, inclusive and economically rewarding for our people,” he stated.
The Bonny Council Boss charged the beneficiaries to use the funds judiciously for costumes, instruments, logistics and performances that would attract visitors to Bonny throughout the festive season.
He added that other Cultural Support Initiative of the Local Government will be directly managed through the Office of the Senior Special Assistant on Cultural Matters, Mr. Richard Ibani Benstowe.
The financial support of Hon. Abinye Pepple is the biggest single investment in cultural tourism by any Bonny local government administration in recent years.
