President Muhammadu Buhari, on Friday, unveiled world record largest photobook, ‘Discover Nigeria’ in Abuja.
The book, written by Bayo Omoboriowo, president Buhari’s personal photographer was presented at the State House Banquet Centre, Presidential Villa, Abuja, to mark the country’s 61st Independence anniversary.
It was glitz and sophisticated night of artistic and cultural displays by cultural troupes from different ethnic backgrounds who thrilled the audience made up of eminent dignitaries, including culture enthusiasts, government officials, politicians, traditional rulers, academics, business tycoons, expatriates, technocrats from different walks of life among others.
With a view to showcasing the country’s rich culture and her uniqueness, culture custodians and enthusiasts displayed the country’s indigenous foodstuff with heaps of tubers of yams around a corner of the exquisite hall. There was also a display of ripe oranges and bananas on all the tables where guests sat and relished the beauty of the artistic evening. Local drinks, particularly ‘kunu,’ was served from local kegs to guests, instead of assorted drinks to demonstrate the passion.
The 392-page book simply titled: “Discover Nigeria” is resplendent in luxuriant pictures which showcase Nigeria’s traditional institutions, farmlands, splendid waterfalls, landscapes, vegetation and other heritages.
The concept offers readers the opportunity to understand the country’s nomenclature and all that her corporate existence, natural endowments and socioeconomic and religious life represent.
The book also has a blend of apt stories of the country’s socio-cultural, religious and economic development as well as achievements across almost all the states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory (FTC).
The author expressed delight that the 60 sqm book was already contending for the Guinness World record largest photo book.
While expressing delight at the book which he described as a pavilion, Buhari assured that government would continue to provide an enabling environment for citizens to achieve their dreams. He also called for their support to make Nigeria a better place for all.
In his address, the president noted that the launch was based on the importance of discovering, “our great nation together and not on an individual basis.”
He added: “As we all march towards building the Nigeria of our dreams, government will continue to provide the enabling environment for citizens to achieve their dreams while we count on their support to make Nigeria a better place for all,” he added.
The president also noted that, Nigerians must all come together to propagate a new and positive narrative and that Nigeria is ready to harness her own resources to become a global player in commerce, governance, arts, sports and other fields of endeavour.
“I want to emphasize that, for the attainment of any sustainable development, unity is important. Let us unite as a nation and be irrevocably committed to one indivisible Nigeria.
In a remark, the 34-year-old author, Bayo Omoboriowo eulogized the president for giving him a level-playing ground to showcase his talent in fulfilment of his vision to make a remarkable impact which has come as his contribution to nation-building.
“I value your fatherly love for me. Without you, I wouldn’t have been what I am today. Thank you for believing in this country. There is hope for this country. The future is bright. Nigeria is a great country. I travelled to all 36 states to see the beauty of this country. The future of this country lies in our hands,” Omoboriowo said.
