How Nigerian Artists Helped President Buhari

According to a statement issued by Femi Adesina, the president’s special adviser on media and publicity, Buhari expressed gratitude to the artists while declaring the Kaduna Music Festival (KADAMFEST) open on Saturday, December 12.

“Many were the efforts made to build a strong party and persuade people that an alternative exists to the incompetence of the PDP. We politicians did our best. But the story of 2015 cannot be honestly told without acknowledging the contributions of creative people to the APC’s success.

“Many actors, musicians and writers – from different strands and in various styles- drew Nigerians to the banner of change. In speaking the language of the people, enlightening and mobilising them with words and images they could understand, I doubt if any politician surpassed the likes of Dauda Rarara and other musicians,” he said.

The president commended the artists for giving hope to Nigerians and persuading them to believe that things could really change.

“Musicians and actors across the length and breadth of Nigeria mobilized the citizenry to stand up for peaceful, orderly and transparent elections. You preached both peace and hope leading to democratic change.

“This application of creative talent to the cause of political change in a dire moment for our country deserves eternal gratitude. As President, I say a formal thank you today on behalf of myself, the APC and our victorious candidates,” he stressed.

Speaking further, the president commended the Kaduna state government for organising KADAMFEST. According to him, the festival offers a platform to acknowledge musicians from all over the country for helping to make 2015 the year of change.

“KADAMFEST also reflects the Kaduna state government’s approach to giving momentum to the growth of the creative industry in the state. In creating jobs, government often has to provide funds and facilities to catalyse the opportunities,” he said.

The president also noted the state government attracted private sector sponsorship for this festival, and did not have to put in its own resources.

Meanwhile, Senator Shehu Sani, who represents Kaduna North senatorial district, accused Governor El-Rufai of being insensitive to the plight of the Kaduna people by organising a music festival while the state and Nigeria are facing economic and security challenges.


Naij