The National Troupe of Nigeria (NTN) on Friday left for Cairo, Egypt, for a weeklong International Festival of Drums and Traditional Arts.

This is contained in a statement issued in Lagos by Shuaib Husseini, the Personal Assistant to the Artistic Director NTN, Mr Akin Adejuwon.

According to the statement, the theme of the event, organised by the Arab Republic of Egypt is tagged: “Drums Dialogue for Peace”.

It said that the invitation to perform at the festival was at the request of the Federal Ministry of Culture, adding that Adejuwon was the leader of the delegation.

According to the statement, the delegation comprises NTN artistes, officials of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the National Orientation.

It quoted Adejuwon as saying that the troupe had prepared well for the event.

“The Troupe packaged a special production of drums, which they will display at the festival. 

“I understand that this is the third edition of the festival aimed at promoting peace and unity in Africa, and addressing the spate of terrorism in the continent.

“It will also exhibit the rich cultural heritage of Africa.  “Luckily, this has been the focus of our productions for this period.

“Using the performing arts to resolve conflicts and promote peace- that is what we tried to achieve with ‘Ajoyo’ and then ‘Spectacle’, which we just staged.

“We have worked on a package based on this theme, which we will be showcasing at the festival,’’ Adejuwon said.

The Troupe is expected back on April 26.