2026 INTERNATIONAL WORLD DANCE DAY CELEBRATION

…. Dance identified as a panacea for Peace, Unity, and Diversity in the FCT

By: Shaka Sunday, Umoru Ojone Blessing and Ejith Achi Kalu.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) came agog with rhythm, colour, and artistic expression as the Department of Arts and Culture of the Social Development Secretariat commemorated the 2026 International World Dance Day.

The event, which brought together dancers, cultural enthusiasts, students, corps members and stakeholders in the creative industry, is celebrated annually to promote awareness on the Art of Dance and its role in bringing people together across cultures and generations. It also highlights the importance of dance as a powerful tool for cultural preservation, social cohesion and creative expression.

Speaking on the theme “Dance as a universal language for resistance, hope and healing,” the Mandate Secretary, Social Development Secretariat, Hon. Ibrahim Aminu, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ms. Olubunmi Olowookere, stated that DANCE, as a universal language, is a powerful form of expression that transcends barriers of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, and social status. Dance remains one of humanity’s most enduring cultural treasures, fostering creativity, promoting healthy lifestyles, strengthening social bonds, and preserving our rich cultural heritage.

As a Secretariat committed to Social Development, inclusion, and community well-being, we recognize dance as more than an art form. It is a tool for social cohesion, youth empowerment, cultural preservation, and community engagement. “Through dance, individuals find confidence, communities discover unity, and societies celebrate diversity,” he said.

Dance as a universal language for Resistance, Hope and Healing” underscores the fact that it is not merely movement, it is storytelling, identity, healing and a reflection of our collective humanity. It is therefore non-negotiable that we embrace its power to inspire hope, foster inclusion and promote understanding among all people.

Hon. Aminu said that the Federal Capital Territory is a remarkable mosaic of cultures, traditions, with people from every part of Nigeria and beyond as inhabitants, thus the event is a unique opportunity to showcase this diversity while reinforcing our shared values of peace, mutual respect, and national unity. It is also a platform for our young people to channel their talents positively, build meaningful connections, and contribute to the social and cultural development of our society.

In his goodwill message, Dr James Steven, a lecturer at the City Federal College Abuja, emphasized the significance of dance as a universal language that transcends barriers of ethnicity, religion, and nationality.

He noted that dance remains one of humanity’s oldest and most enduring forms of communication, capable of fostering unity and promoting cultural understanding.

“Young people should learn to dance against injustice, dance towards possibilities, see dance as life and the preservation of our identity; and our identity is what celebrates us”.

Participants also engaged in panel discussions on the role of dance in youth development, cultural tourism and the creative economy. Speakers encouraged young people to embrace dance not only as a recreational activity, but also as a viable career path within the expanding creative industry.

In her earlier remarks, the Director of FCT Department of Arts and Culture, Mrs. Ngozi Ogugua, commended the Mandate Secretary and the Permanent Secretary, for their continuous support in driving and promoting both national and international programmes and events in the Secretariat; promising to sustain the tempo.

The highlight of the celebration was the captivating performances on the dance titled “AWYETU (Hope)” from the dance troupes, showcasing Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity through traditional and contemporary dance presentations. The performers thrilled the audience with energetic displays that reflected the country’s vibrant cultural heritage while demonstrating the evolving nature of dance as an art form.