The National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO) is a key institution under the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture in Nigeria. It is dedicated to promoting, preserving, and revitalizing Nigerian culture. Here is an in-depth look at NICO:
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Objectives and Mandate
NICO’s primary objectives include:
- Promoting Cultural Orientation: Encouraging a deeper understanding and appreciation of Nigerian culture among its citizens.
- Cultural Education: Offering programs that educate Nigerians about their cultural heritage.
- Research and Documentation: Conducting research to document Nigeria’s cultural practices, traditions, and languages.
- Public Enlightenment: Running campaigns to enlighten the public about the importance of cultural values and practices.
- National Unity: Using culture as a tool to foster national unity and integration.
Key Functions
- Cultural Training Programs: NICO organizes workshops, seminars, and training sessions focused on various aspects of Nigerian culture. These programs target public servants, educators, community leaders, and the general public.
- Research and Publications: The institute conducts extensive research on Nigerian culture and publishes reports, journals, and books to share findings and knowledge.
- Cultural Events and Festivals: NICO supports and organizes cultural festivals, events, and exhibitions that highlight Nigeria’s cultural diversity.
- Language Promotion: NICO promotes the use and preservation of Nigerian indigenous languages through language classes, initiatives, and advocacy.
- Cultural Orientation Programs: These programs aim to instill cultural values and norms in Nigerians, particularly among the youth.
Organizational Structure
- Governing Board: NICO is governed by a board that formulates policies and provides oversight.
- Executive Secretary: The head of NICO, responsible for daily administration and the execution of programs and policies.
- Departments and Units: NICO is divided into various departments and units, each focusing on specific aspects of its mandate, such as research, training, finance, and administration.
Collaborations and Partnerships
NICO collaborates with national and international organizations, educational institutions, and cultural bodies. These partnerships facilitate the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and resources, enhancing NICO’s programs and initiatives.
Notable Programs and Initiatives
- Annual Round Table on Cultural Orientation (ARTCO): A forum for cultural stakeholders to discuss strategies for promoting and sustaining Nigerian culture.
- Children’s Cultural Fiesta: An event designed to educate and engage young Nigerians in cultural activities, fostering an early appreciation of their heritage.
- National Conference on Culture and Development: A platform for intellectual discourse on the role of culture in national development.
- Weekend Indigenous Language Program (WILP): A program aimed at teaching Nigerian indigenous languages to children and adults during weekends.
- NICO Cultural Clubs in Schools: Establishing cultural clubs in schools to engage students in cultural activities and education.
- NICO Training School
CONTACTS
- Head Office: NICO, Headquarter, Abuja No. 23 Kigoma Street Wuse Zone 7, Abuja
- Email: info@nico.gov.ng
NICO OTHER BRANCHES
- National Theatre, Orile Iganmu P.M.B 1390, Apapa Lagos
- No. 17A Nnobi Street Independence Layout, Enugu
- Gombe Federal Low Cost, Gombe, Gombe
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