Dr Ferdinand Anikwe, Director General, Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC) on Monday,called on Nigerians to ensure full participation in celebration of FESTAC 77 at 40.

He made the plea while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, adding that this was to ensure that Nigerian cultural heritage was celebrated and promoted beyond the shores of the country.

Anikwe who noted the complacency of some Nigerians towards most cultural programmes, said this should serve as a wakeup call to all citizens within and outside the country.

” I want us all to erase that thinking pattern and assumption that the celebration is bringing back the fetish nature of Nigerians.

” This is outrightly wrong and I believe everything that has to do with FESTAC 77 is an exhibition of our rich cultural heritage which we must celebrate this year,” he said.

Anikwe said that the event would hold in over ten states including the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja) where the Mascot would be unveiled by April 1.

He said that different cultural displays would be held in some states including Katsina, Enugu, Ogun, Kaduna, Akwa- Ibom and some foreign countries.

” The celebration would be all through the year and it promises to be eventful and memorable.

” We are going to have Durbar display in Katsina , there will be masquerade festivals in Enugu and some other cultural activities in other parts of the country,” he said.

Anikwe said that if Nigerian cultural heritage was well celebrated, promoted and properly harnessed, it could be a money spinner for individuals and the country.