The Federal Capital Territory Administration ( FCTA) has rewarded three winners of the “Abuja @ 47 poetry contest” with various gifts items, which include smartphones and laptops.
Mr Olusade Adesola, FCTA Permanent Secretary, presented the prizes to the winners on Wednesday in Abuja.
He said that the contest was one of the ways to engage the youths and enhance their creativity, while creating a platform for the unification all tribes.
Adesola said that the administration will continue to explore ways of using innovation to build the Abuja dream, and ensure that the city becomes habitable and secured for all.
He added that there was enormous talents in the art and harnessing it for both FCT and national development was very important.
“As a government, we recognize the importance of supporting and promoting the arts and the creative industry, in general.
“I do not need to start telling you about the importance of arts, but it is important to say state that arts help us in expressing our humanity, showcasing our talents, and connecting with others in ways that enrich our lives.
“The huge talent which you expressed your arts has connected us all in this room for development of the nation’s capital,” he said.
Earlier in her remarks, Dr Jumai Ahmadu, Acting Director of the Department of Reform Coordination and Service Improvement, FCTA, said the winners were selected from about 30 entries received from applicants.
She explained that the participants were required to write stories and share online videos that best represents what Abuja stands for.
Ahmadu added that the winners had been rewarded with smart phones and laptops to enable them continue with the propagation of the ideals of the Abuja project.