FCT Archives holds symposium on Nigeria’s cultural, political history

The FCT Archives and History Bureau yesterday held a symposium on the socio-cultural and political history of Nigeria to commemorate the country’s 61st independence anniversary.

The bureau said the event would provide an opportunity to “relive our past experiences and cherished values as an independent great nation.’’

Speaking at the event, the Minister of the FCT, Malam Muhammad Musa Bello, called on Nigerians to join forces with President Muhammadu Buhari against those that sought to divide the country.

 He said, “There is the need to join President Muhammadu Buhari and the majority of Nigerians in standing firm against forces that seek to divide, rather than unite us, and honour the memories and sacrifices of our past heroes.

“Nigeria today sits on a foundation forged from the ideals of unity, strength and a deep sense of national pride. These ideals were mooted and exemplified by our founding fathers, and which over the years have propelled our country to greatness.’’

The Director of FCT Archives, Mr Peter Chukwukelu, noted that the occasion was “unique because of its landmark significance in providing us the singular opportunity to relive our past experiences and cherished values as an independent great nation.

 “I would like to equally use the occasion to highlight the importance of records keeping and archives management not only in the Secretariats, Departments and Agencies (SDAs) of the FCT Administration, but also in other public and private organisations in Nigeria.

“In line with the current global and national aspirations for accountability, transparency and good governance, the need for developing proper records keeping and management cannot be over-stressed.”