The Federal Government has announced the establishment of the Nigerian Academy for Cultural Studies (NACUS), aimed at fostering innovative studies and the development of Nigerian culture and history.
Biodun Ajiboye, the Executive Secretary of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation, made this disclosure through his media aide, Caleb Nor.
Ajiboye emphasized that the introduction of NACUS is part of the government’s efforts to promote a cultural renaissance and encourage a deeper appreciation of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
”NACUS is the nation’s premier institution for cultural training, dedicated to equipping individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to contribute to the advancement of Nigerian culture and history,” he said.
He added: ”The academy, which has received approval from the National Board for Technical Education, offers a National Diploma in Cultural Administration & Human Resources.
”Additionally, it provides a postgraduate diploma program in Cultural Administration affiliated with Nasarawa State University, Keffi.
”NACUS is set to have campuses in four geographical locations across Nigeria, including Abuja, the Northern Zone, the Southern Zone, and the Eastern Zone.”
Ajiboye highlighted ongoing efforts to ensure that certifications from the academy are recognized and employable within the civil service and various sectors, including cultural workers, entrepreneurs, hotels, and tourism agencies.
”The transformation of NICO’s training school into a full-fledged higher institution for cultural education and training underscores this government’s commitment to promoting cultural renaissance and integrating cultural content into the national curriculum,” he stated.
Ajiboye emphasized the importance of cultural identity in fostering national identity, stressing that NACUS represents a significant step towards realizing this goal.
He further noted that the establishment of NACUS reflects the government’s recognition of culture as a vital component of national development, highlighting its potential to drive job creation and economic growth through the nation’s cultural heritage.
He emphasized that NACUS represents a pivotal initiative under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, ”aimed at empowering Nigerian youths and promoting cultural excellence in the entertainment and fintech sectors.”
He also expressed optimism that NACUS would ”contribute significantly to the preservation and promotion of Nigeria’s cultural heritage for generations to come.”