Turkish, Nigerian Poets Unite In Abuja To Promote Peace Through Art

Nigeria and Turkey have strengthened their cultural partnership with a poetry exchange in Abuja, designed to foster peace, dialogue, and mutual understanding between the two nations.

The literary gathering, hosted by the Yunus Emre Institute, brought together poets, cultural practitioners, diplomats, and arts administrators from both countries to explore shared human values through poetry and performance.

Speaking at the event, Director-General of the Kaduna International Film Festival, Israel Kashim Audu, described poetry as a powerful medium for cultural diplomacy and peacebuilding.

He noted the distinct influences on each nation’s poetry: Anatolian mysticism deeply shapes Turkish verse, while Nigerian poetry often reflects post-colonial experiences, identity, and nationhood.

“Despite these different historical contexts, both poetic traditions converge in their pursuit of justice, harmony, and human dignity,” Audu said.

Fatih Erkin Mahdum, Abuja Coordinator of the Yunus Emre Institute, stated that the institute has been committed to promoting Turkish language, arts, and culture in Nigeria since its establishment in 2021.

He added that collaborations with Nigerian artists are key to strengthening cultural ties and encouraging creative exchange.

The diplomatic presence at the event highlighted its international significance. Mrs. Florence Nzako, Counsellor at the Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Solveig Andresen of the Norwegian Embassy, both welcomed participants and commended the initiative for leveraging art to advance peace and intercultural understanding.

The poets presented works exploring themes of peace, love, displacement, and resilience, drawing poetic connections between the Bosphorus and the Niger River as symbols of unity and shared humanity.

Kattumu Bulama Gana, Director-General and Artistic Director of the National Troupe of Nigeria, also spoke, emphasising that artistic collaborations offer unique opportunities to understand common histories and aspirations.

He described the poetry exchange as a valuable contribution to cultural diplomacy between Nigeria and Turkey.