The Edo State Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Tourism, Prince Bamidele Obaitan, has called for the advancement of societal values through socio-cultural reorientation to ensure that youths get the right guidance to preserve Nigeria's rich cultural heritage.

The commissioner said this while receiving the Award of Intense Stewardship/Service Ambassador to the Nation from the Advocacy for Peace and Values Reorientation, a Non-Governmental Organisation focused on advocating for good governance and peace in the six geo-political zones of Nigeria.

Prince Bamidele said the restoration of societal values through social and cultural reorientation will help tackle societal ills confronting the country and place it on the path of sustainable growth and development.

He said, “When I started, one of the things I said was needed in our state was the reorientation of the culture and norms. This is about service. The people are the bosses because if they don't pay taxes, we don't get paid. So, knowing this will make a person in a government position do better.

“Everyone should live the Nigeria they want to see. Parents should start asking their children for explanations when their children bring back something they cannot afford because our people are doing the wrong thing and celebrating it.”

On his part, the Executive Director of the Advocacy for Peace and Value Reorientation, Comrade Abubakar Oyibo noted that the group’s interest in Edo was piqued by the leadership acumen and performance of the Godwin Obaseki-led administration

Oyibo said, “We have carried out a confidential and independent assessment across the six geopolitical zones and are proud of the giant leap that Edo State witnessed under the sterling leadership of Governor Godwin Obaseki.

“Why we are so interested is that Edo State has the best cultural value in the country. The tourism potential is huge and the amazing part is the sustainability and retention of these values.

Presenting the award to the Commissioner, the group’s Executive Director stated, “We have seen your display of ethical leadership and the development you have brought to this sector. Your administrative discipline and work ethics compliance, as well as the synergy between you and your team in the discharge of your duties, among others, are some of the reasons for this award conferral on you.”