The festival, organized by the university’s Centre for Languages and Culture Studies, brought together students from across Nigeria to showcase the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the country.
The event featured performances, traditional dances, indigenous cuisines, attire exhibitions, and other cultural displays from more than 17 ethnic groups, including Hausa, Fulani, Kanuri, Igbo, Yoruba, Shuwa Arab, Tiv, Idoma, Sayawa, and Jarawa among others.
In her opening remarks, the Vice Chancellor of SAZU, Professor Fatimah Tahir, expressed joy and pride over the successful hosting of the festival. She described the day as one of the most memorable in her tenure at the university.
“Today is the most relaxing day in our lives at this university. Since I came to this university, I have never had a relaxed day as mush as I’m having today,” Professor Tahir said.
She lauded the event for uniting students from various ethnic backgrounds in a peaceful and celebratory atmosphere.
“The essence of having such a programme is for us to better understand the people around us," adding that It’s about learning to live together in peace while appreciating each other’s uniqueness.
Professor Tahir emphasized the importance of cultural preservation, noting that such events not only celebrate diversity but also contribute to the safeguarding of Nigeria’s cultural heritage for future generations.
“This is not just about entertainment—it’s about preserving who we are as a people. I strongly encourage making this festival an annual tradition, rather than separate celebrations by individual ethnic groups.”
She assured continued institutional support to ensure the festival becomes a lasting tradition at SAZU.
Also speaking at the event, the Emir of Katagum, His Royal Highness Dr. Umar Farouq II, commended the university for promoting cultural awareness and unity.
Represented by Engineer Magaji Dahuwa Abdulkadir, the Emir called on the public and relevant stakeholders to support the university in its cultural and academic pursuits.
The Director of the Centre for Languages and Culture, Dr. Ahmad Tanimu Jibril, highlighted the aim of the event as fostering mutual understanding among the university’s diverse student population.
“We want students to appreciate one another’s cultures and develop deeper bonds. SAZU is a cosmopolitan institution, and this festival reflects how far we’ve come,” he said.
The festival concluded with cultural dances and food tasting, during which the visibly excited Vice Chancellor actively participated—dancing with various ethnic groups and sampling local delicacies prepared by students.
The inaugural SAZUCEF has not only demonstrated SAZU’s commitment to education but also positioned it as a beacon of unity in a diverse nation.
0 Comments