some participants at the ongoing 12th edition of International Arts and Crafts Expo (INAC) have lauded the organisers for proving a platform to synergise and showcase diverse cultures.
They made the commendation in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria ( NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.
Ms Odette Peterson- Thomas, the counsellor/head of chancery Trinidad and Tobago High Commssion, lauded organisers saying it was a great platform to showcase culture, arts and Crafts.
According to her, the expo has provided them with a platform to display their culture, arts and national instruments, such as the steel pan-tenor.
Thomas said that the tenor pan when played brought out great sounds and melody and could be played during festivals or cultural events.
She noted that it was her second time to participate in the expo and acknowledged that it was an awesome experience for her.
According to her, Nigeria’s culture is different from Trinidads and that is the unique experience for her and planned to participate in the next expo to showcase more of their cultural heritage and arts.
Ahmed Ullah falso, the Director of Bangladesh Arts and Crafts Foundation, said the expo also provided an opportunity for them to showcase their arts and crafts.
He also said that it was an avenue to learn from other countries participating in the expo for wider experiences.
“This is our first time to participate in this expo and I will be glad if we are given the opportunity to participate again next time
“We are showcasing our cultural items such as the “Jambari sharee” one of our handmade fabrics and the Jute purse and bag made with natural fibre and it is not harmful to the environment.
“There is also the Nakshi Katha fabrics and all these items are made naturally with hands,” he added.
Mrs Binta Abdullahi from Chad Republic of Chad, said that participating in the expo was a place to present and display their traditional medicine meant to cure illnesses such as fibroid and sickle cell diseases and others.
Abdullahi, who is an expert in local and traditional herbs and medicines, added that on display at her stand was local pots and plates made with woods and different types of traditional and local scents.
According to her, this is her second time of participating in the expo, she says she is looking forward to more of the occasion added that she is having a nice time in Nigeria.
Mrs uchenna Eboechiwi a participant from Anambra state, said the event had provided her with a platform and opportunity to showcase the rich culture of Anambra.
She added that she was also participating to showcase the traditional arts and crafted items such as wooden idols and pots from her state.
Eboechiwi, who displayed native hand beads and necklaces made with traditional fabric, cultural hand fans and handmade wooden animals to portray the beauty of their culture also expressed her gratitude to INAC.
She, however, stated that she had been a regular participant and was looking forward for a wonderful event and reiterated commitment to participate in the next edition.