The commissioner for culture and tourism in Enugu State, Ugochi Madueke, has sad the administration of Governor Peter Mbah remains committed to boosting the tourism sectoir.

She stated this yesterday during the official opening of Kachi James Arts Gallery, intended to provide a platform for budding artists

The commisioner expressed her support for the establishment of the Kachi James Art Gallery.

“We will establish more galleries because they will boost tourism and the economy by attracting visitors from different parts of the country and also boost the state’ economy,” she said. They will also serve as educational tools for the people and a way of preserving our Cultural heritage,” Madueke said.

She noted that the government was doing even more in the tourism sector as plans are underway to have a film villa and a museum where different art works will be displayed.

In a speech at the occasion, the lawmaker representing Enugu West Senatorial District, Senator Osita Ngwu, highlighted the private sector’s contribution to the development of arts in Nigeria.

Ngwu said the nation had achieved economic growth in various arts through the enormous contributions of the private sector.

“I’m very happy with what I have seen today. Kachi James just showed the substance she’s made of by bringing this art gallery to Enugu. It’s a private initiative and I commend it completely.

“This is what the Igbo call ‘aku ruo ulo’. This shows that when you have a part of your investment to where you come from, it shows you have your heart where you come from.

“I’m hoping that this gallery is going to motivate more youths, who have the talents for arts but lack the exposure such as this. With the number of arts enthusiasts that have trooped into this place to have a look at the colourful paintings, it gives the motivation that they can actually make a living from painting.

“I commend Kachi James for this initiative, which is a platform to motivate young artists. It’s good to follow your dream and live it in all you do”, he said.

The lawmaker, who expressed happiness with the contributions of the private sector like Kachi James, said with the effort of the state government, and “the contributions of some of us in the legislature, there will be a new paradigm shift for arts in Enugu and South-East”.

The event featured arts exhibitions, auctions, live art performances, dance presentations, sip and paint.

Senator hails private sector contribution to growth of arts.

The high point was cutting of the tape to unveil the gallery by Senator Ngwu. He expressed optimism that it would motivate youths who have interest in arts to know where to exhibit their pieces of works.