MUSIC IS A POWERFUL TOOL THAT INFLUENCES THOUGHT AND BEHAVIOUR- ONYEAMA
Oru Leonard
The Minister of Foreign Affairs in Nigeria, Geoffrey Onyeama has said that music is a powerful tool that influences thought and behavior.
H. E. Onyeama said this in his remark at Abuja during an Exclusive Command Performance by the Commonwealth Community Choir with the theme “Peace for All Nations”.
“In spite of the global unrest, music is a powerful tool that influences thought and behavior, and creates a culture of peace among people.
The theme ‘Peace for All Nations’, is the objective of the Commonwealth. Thid evening is an opportunity to celebrate unity through diversity and expressed belief that the performance will bring positive change as the world is facing a lot.
“We welcome the opportunity the Choir is giving us to put aside a lot of the depressing news around the world and within our country and relax to let the music soothe our souls, so we will forget the sadness enveloping the world”, he said.
Former President of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and Patron of the Choir who was said that the youth have a great role to play in ensuring peace in Nigeria, adding that the peace of the country lies in the hands of the youth.“When young people come together to perform with the theme “Peace for All Nations”, I am quite impressed. If you continue with that spirit… Just like they say, songs heals the heart and listening to good music elevates your spirit”.
Jonathan called for stronger National Youth Body that will unify the country instead of the regional bodies which he said are presently stronger than National bodies.
He said he had to leave everything he was to attend the event since it has to do with the message of peace. “First we must have a Nation before we talk of Peace and Security, he therefore be urged the youths to always Sue for peace.Keep the flag flying and use your talent to impress on the unity of Nigeria”, he advised.
In his Goodwill message, Femi Adesgina said despite the short notice of invitation, he had to come because their performance is always good, particularly the title of this years performance..
Also speaking, the Pioneer Global President of the Commonwealth Youth Council, Dr. Ahmed Adamu who commended the consistency of the choir group noted music can be used to promote peace and other developmental issues.
The Commonwealth Community Choir’s Organizing Secretary, Prince Ewefa in his vote of thanks said urged the diplomatic community to take the message of peace across the globe and the Commonwealth.The renditions witnessed The Commonwealth award winning song 2015, “Peace for all Nations” among others.
The Choir is expected to undertake a global tour of the Commonwealth countries to promote peace and development through music and will
focus on issues of climate change, Peace for all nations, ways to motivate young people, and promotion of local content.
The event was also attended by many dignitaries and Diplomats.
