Nigerian culture minister hails Moroccan experience in safeguarding legacy

Nigerian Minister of Culture and Tourism Ojo Maduekwe praised Morocco's experience in safeguarding its legacy.

In an interview with MAP, the Nigerian official who is leading a delegation to the 23rd session of the UNESCO world heritage committee, held from Nov. 30 to Dec. 2 in Marrakesh, stressed that Morocco and Nigeria have excellent relations, highlighting Morocco's key role in the creation of the Organization of African Unity.

After he recalled the pain felt in Nigeria following the passing away of King Hassan II (last July), Maduekwe said Nigerian president, who heard the news as he was receiving French president Jacques Chirac, decided to cancel all the dancing and singing showcs and asked Nigerians to pray for the rest of the late king's soul.

To a question on ethnic troubles in his country, the Nigerian minister said Nigeria is presently engaged in a democratic process after 16 years of military dictatorship.

The Nigerian official will leave Morocco on Friday.