The Kwara Government on Friday  pledged  to promote  the tourism potentials of the state in order to boost revenue and create employment.

Hajia Rahmat Adesina-Abaya, the state Commissioner for Social Development, Culture and Tourism,  made the pledge in Ilorin at the 2012 Kwara Cultural Festival.

The commissioner,  who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry,  Alhaji Abdulraham Sidiq,  said government  was planning to revive the status of  culture and tourism in the state.

She urged  individuals and non governmental bodies to partner with the ministry in order to the sector.

Adesina-Abaya  further said that  the festival was a  celebration of  the state's cultural heritage, adding that it would  sensitise the youths  on   the beauty of  their indigenous dialects, music, dance and dresses.

The commissioner commended  Gov. Abdulfatah Ahmed for the attention given to the  promotion of  the cultural heritage of the state.

She also said the state was determined to successfully host  the 26th National Festival of Arts and Culture tagged "NAFEST 2012. ''

The commissioner solicited the support of all residents  to ensure  a hitch-free  festival.

Alhaji  Isiaka Gold, the Secretary to the State  Government, said government could ensure economic recovery without recourse to oil revenue.

"Indeed, it is crystal-clear that by developing the economic potentials of our crafts, culture and tourism as individuals and collectivity, poverty would be eliminated from our homes and society in general,'' he said.

In his address of welcome, Mr Akande Kabir, the Chairman of  Kwara Cultural Festival Executive Council,  said the event  was designed to align and promote the administration's policy of  promoting culture and tourism through public-private partnership.

(NAN)