By Veronica Dariya
Governor of Taraba state, Dr Agbu Kefas, on Saturday, promised to give full support to the preservation of the cultural heritage, as well as enhancing tourism in the state.
The governor spoke when he received a team of volunteers and partners for the 2024 UNESCO World Heritage Volunteer (WHV) Initiative in Jalingo, Taraba.
Kefas, who was represented by the Deputy Governor of the state, Alhaji Aminu Alkali, stated that it was a great honor to have people who wish to enhance and showcase the potential of the state to the whole world.
He said: “By the time this initiative is successfully carried out, Taraba will be on the global stage with it’s cultural heritage and tourist potentials on display for the whole world to see.
“We assure you of our sincere support and also assure you that your time here will not be wasted, but hope that it brings a lasting legacy to the people of Taraba.
“This will surely benefit us.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the UNESCO WHV was initiated to encourage young people to undertake concrete actions and play an active role in the protection, preservation and promotion of World Heritage.
It consists of action camp projects put together by the organizations, Dr Dewayne Fraser, national and international volunteers in awareness-raising and hands-on activities. 
Earlier, Director General, African International Documentary Festival Foundation (AFIDFF) and also convener of the initiative, Mrs Malame Mangzha, indicated that the initiative was meant to contribute significantly to the preservation of such, for the future generation.
According to her, the state’s unique biodiversity, cultural richness, and the warm hospitality of its citizens make it an ideal location for the 2024 initiative
She added that the theme for the 2024 WHV initiative is “Elevating the Gashaka-Gumti National Park from tentative recognition to World Heritage site status.”
“It aims to preserve and protect the national park’s outstanding scenic, natural, scientific, recreational, and significant property values.
“It focuses on maintaining important wetlands and water catchment areas, exploring the linkage between nature, culture, and human activities and documenting the park’s attributes to produce a Nomination Dossier for UNESCO World Heritage Site inscription,” she said.
Also speaking, President of the American University of Nigeria (AUN)
Dr Dewayne Fraser, emphasized the need for Nigeria to focus on culture preservation, while stating thet the country was blessed with diverse cultures.
He added that it was Nigeria’s uniqueness from other African countries and the world at large and therefore, must be explored sufficiently, while taking pride in preserving it.
NAN reports that the 2024 WHV is initiated by AFIDFF, in collaboration with the Taraba state and other government and non government partners.