By Godwin Ajom
A female traditional ruler in Eyong Abatim community, Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State, Obongawan Marie Ikpeme Erete (Aruk Ii), has called for unity amongst Nigerians and deliberate promotion of local contents, particularly cotton materials as a pathway to national prosperity.
Obongawan Marie gave the advice while unfolding her efforts to the resuscitation and promotion of Efik culture in Calabar.
She called on Nigerians in particular and Africans in general at home and abroad, to engage in the promotion of their indigenous culture rather allowing their cultural values and traditions to go extinct.
Speaking on the benefits of patronizing locally-made goods, Erete highlighted the comfort and practicality of traditional cotton attire in Nigeria’s tropical climate. She said, “Our cotton materials are far cooler for this sort of heat. We need to support our own.”
The royal figure stressed that collective support for local products is crucial for national growth, urging Nigerians to prioritize unity and teamwork over individualism: “We can succeed much, much better if we work as a team than to work individually.”
She emphasized the importance of instilling cultural values in the younger generation, saying “You need to teach your children to value what they have, protect it, and promote it. By promoting our products, they will get better, and it will enrich the country.”
The Queen called for an end to harmful practices like backbiting and ill-treatment, urging citizens to channel their energy into constructive endeavors.
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