The longstanding discord between the Association of Nigerian Theatre Practitioners (ANTP) and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism has been peacefully resolved, announced Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbayi.
In a statement released by the Commissioner, it was clarified that the dispute stemmed from a communication breakdown regarding charges for the usage of space at the June 12 Cultural Centre. Hon. Fagbayi emphasized that the agreed-upon fee of #20,000.00 was designated for maintenance during usage, not as the official rent rate.
The decision was reached during a meeting convened at the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in Abeokuta on Wednesday, 20th March, 2024. Key attendees included the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Communications, Otunba Dare Odufowokan, top management staff of the Ministry, ANTP Governor Mr. Bashiru Sanni, and other ANTP representatives.
Hon. Fagbayi expressed satisfaction that the meeting, the final in a series, concluded fruitfully.
He underscored the shared objective of protecting, preserving, and promoting culture in the state, stressing the importance of peaceful coexistence between the Ministry and cultural stakeholders. He firmly believed that collaborative efforts would expedite the realization of this goal.