Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has given his royal blessings to the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC) for the commemoration of the 45th anniversary of FESTAC’77.

The commemoration of the festival, held in 1977, has been slated for December 5 to 11  in Abuja by CBAAC, the organiser.

Oluwabunmi Amao, director-general, CBAAC, stated this in a statement on Saturday in Lagos.

Oba Ewuare, during CBAAC’s visit to his palace on Thursday, assured of his support for the festival.

He said that though the timing for the commemoration ceremony had coincided with the celebration of the popular Igueh Festival in Benin, he would send a good representative.

The traditional ruler said he would consult with his chiefs on how best further to support the centre toward the success of the event.

He noted that he was a direct descendant of the great queen mother Idia as he further expressed his commitment to the preservation and promotion of the rich cultural heritage of the people of Benin, particularly the Benin language.

Earlier, Ms Amao appreciated the oba for the warm reception accorded her and her team.

She said the visit was in recognition of the role of the traditional institution in cultural preservation, promotion and propagation as well as to solicit the support of the traditional institution in Nigeria.

According to her, the participation of the traditional institutions was vital as they are the custodians of the African culture and ensure that they play an active role at FESTAC’77 at 45 anniversary.

Ms Amao said in recognition of the significant role of the Benin traditional institution, and as the birthplace of the emblem of FESTAC’77, she came with her team to pay homage to the kingdom.

She said the visit was also to seek the traditional leader’s support for the overall success of the commemoration of the festival.

(NAN)