Connect with us

    Festivals

    Zango Kataf: Bajju cultural festival revived after 18 years

    Published

    on

    The Nom Bajju annual Cultural Festival in Zango Kataf local government area of Kaduna State was penultimate Sunday revived after 18 years of suspension due to instability, insecurity, and unforeseen circumstances.

    The festival was last marked and celebrated in May 2005 before it was put on hold.

    The Executive Chairman of Zango Kataf local government area , Hon. Francis Sani Zimbo disclosed that the annual festival, almost went into extinction due to many years of suspension.

    The Council Chairman, in a statement on Monday said following the lifting of the suspension, “the 2023 Nom Bajju Cultural Festival was held in Zonkwa on Sunday, the new year Eve”.

    “The event taking place today is a signal of the gradual return of relative peace and stability in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area which has eluded Zangon Kataf Local Government for over a decade.

    “My administration has worked tirelessly and assiduously to achieve this, adding this feat has earned me a national recognition from the Peace Academy of Management and Administration (PAMA) as one of its Peace Ambassadors”.

    Guest Speaker of the occasion, a former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana, has called on the people of Southern Kaduna to think creatively and engage strategically for the sustainable development of the region.

    According to him because of the love the Bajju Community has for God, “God is going to transform their land for it to rise again”.

    “I challenge the people to think creatively, work creatively, organize productively, invest boldly, seek strategic partners as well as govern wisely, and find solutions to community peace to guarantee a prosperous society.

    The Chairman of the occasion, former Governor of Kaduna State, Ahmed Makarfi said the essence of the ceremony was to showcase culture and sustain the bond of unity of the Bajju people.

    Makarfi noted with satisfaction that the Bajju people have always excelled in every position of responsibility given to them and expressed gratitude to the Bajju Community Development Association, BADA for inducting him into the ‘Bajju Hall of Fame.’

    The Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State as well as the Chief of Defence Staff, who were represented through the Senator representing Kaduna South Senatorial District, Sunday Marshall Katung, harped on the need for the people to promote peace at all times to guarantee a versatile and progressive
    society.

    In his own view, Senator Katung said people’s characters are molded by their thinking and urged all to acknowledge the significance of unity as a veritable tool that propels any human society to success.

    Earlier, the Paramount Chief of the Bajju people, Agwam Kajju, Mr Luka Kogi Yabuwat hailed sons and daughters of the land for demonstrating high sense of responsibilities in discharging their duties to move the Kajju land forward.

    The Royal father appealed to Governor Uba Sani to consider the possibility of completing the construction work on the Agwam Kajju’s palace to make it more convenient for him.

    Highlights of the occasion include the award of traditional titles to Governor Uba Sani, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, Chief of Defense Staff, General Christopher Musa, Professor Jerry Gana, and former Chief of Defence Staff, General Martins Luther Agwai by the Agwam Kajju.

    Continue Reading
    Click to comment

    Leave a Reply

    Festivals

    Ogun State gears up for historic 2024 national sports festival

    Published

    on

    2024 National Sports Festival Ogun

    Ogun State is set to host the 2024 National Sports Festival, with Premium Trust Bank as lead sponsor, promising a world-class sporting event

     

    The **Federal Government** has commended **Ogun State** for its dedication to hosting a **world-class National Sports Festival (NSF)** as preparations for the **Gateway Games 2024** reach advanced stages.

    Also read: Ogun State to boost tourism through cultural networking and Adire fabric revitalisation

    On **Wednesday in Abeokuta**, the **Local Organising Committee (LOC)**, backed by the **National Sports Commission (NSC)**, officially unveiled **Premium Trust Bank** as the **lead sponsor** of the event in a **record-breaking sponsorship deal**.

    Chairman of the **NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko**, praised Ogun State’s **exceptional commitment** to organising a **seamless and memorable** festival. He also highlighted the **crucial role of corporate sponsorships** in shaping the future of Nigerian sports.

    “The unveiling of Premium Trust Bank as the lead sponsor for the **2024 National Sports Festival** is a testament to the rising confidence of the **private sector** in Nigerian sports. Ogun State has demonstrated an extraordinary level of commitment, and this partnership is a step toward elevating the festival to **exceptional standards**,” Dikko said.

    Beyond the competition, Dikko emphasised the **festival’s impact** on **tourism, job creation, and economic growth** in Ogun State.

    “The **Gateway Games 2024** will not only showcase **athletic excellence** but will also **boost local businesses**, create **employment opportunities**, and promote Ogun State as a hub for **sports and economic development**,” he added.

    The **National Sports Festival**, often referred to as the **Nigerian Olympics**, is owned by the **NSC** and will feature **over 20,000 participants** from **36 states and the FCT**, with the introduction of **Invited Junior Athletes (IJA)** as the **38th state**.

    Scheduled to run from **16 to 30 May 2025**, the festival is set to be **one of the largest sporting events in Nigeria’s history**.

    “This festival is more than just a sporting event; it is a **celebration of talent, resilience, and the boundless potential of Nigerian sports**. With Ogun State’s level of preparation and the commitment of all stakeholders, I have no doubt that **Gateway Games 2024** will be the most remarkable edition yet,” Dikko stated.

    The **NSC** has reaffirmed its **full support** for Ogun State, ensuring that all **necessary resources and enablers** are in place for a **successful and historic** event.

    Continue Reading

    Festivals

    Phynofest returns to Enugu: Phyno announces grand comeback of iconic concert

    Published

    on

    Phynofest 2025

    Phyno announces the return of Phynofest to Enugu in 2025, promising a bigger and better experience for fans. Get ready for an unforgettable celebration

     

    Phyno, the Nigerian rapper and music legend, has officially revealed that his highly anticipated annual concert, *Phynofest*, will be making a spectacular return to Enugu in 2025.

    Also read: Enugu to host 23rd national sports festival in 2026

    After a brief hiatus, the event, renowned for selling out in previous editions, is set to make a grand comeback, thrilling fans with a bigger and better show than ever before.

    Taking to social media to share the exciting news, Phyno expressed his excitement and anticipation for the event. He wrote, “Enugu, it’s about to be lit again! Phynofest is back, and this year we’re going bigger and better. You all have been asking for it, and now it’s time to make history again.”

    The popular rapper, whose real name is Chibuzor Nelson Azubuike, also shared that part of his visit to the state would involve discussions with the governor regarding plans for the November 2025 concert.

    Emphasising the importance of government support, Phyno noted that it would be crucial in ensuring the event’s success and boosting tourism in the state.

    Since its inception, Phynofest has become one of Nigeria’s most celebrated and iconic music festivals. Known for its electrifying performances, star-studded lineups, and thrilling atmosphere, Phynofest attracts thousands of fans to Enugu, the Coal City.

    The concert has previously featured some of Nigeria’s biggest music stars, including Olamide, Flavour, and Zoro, making it an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

    Phyno’s loyal fanbase, particularly in the Eastern region, eagerly awaits the event each year, and this year’s return has sparked widespread excitement.

    Fans have already begun speculating about potential guest appearances and surprises, with many commenting online about the anticipation. One fan expressed on Instagram, “We’ve missed this! Phynofest always brings the whole state together.”

    Phyno, known for his distinctive blend of rap and indigenous Igbo sounds, continues to shape the Nigerian music landscape.

    His influence spans beyond the music scene, with his cultural contributions making him a significant figure in the Eastern part of Nigeria and throughout the country.

    Phynofest has become a symbol of this cultural impact, drawing attention to the state of Enugu while providing an unparalleled platform for music lovers to celebrate Nigerian talent.

    Though the official venue for the 2025 Phynofest is yet to be revealed, Phyno reassured fans that further announcements would follow soon, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next big update.

    Continue Reading

    Festivals

    Katsina State to host 2025 ECOWAS food, cultural festival

    Published

    on

    2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival

    Katsina State will host the 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, promoting African cultural values, food security, and regional development

     

    Katsina State, in Nigeria’s North West, has been chosen to host the 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, themed *“African Cultural Values and Food Security for Peace and Development.”*

    Also read: Detty December in Lagos boosts economy, tourism, entertainment

    This prestigious event aims to unite key stakeholders to address security challenges affecting farming and agriculture across Nigeria and the broader West African region.

    The announcement was made by Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Malam Dikko Umar Radda.

    Scheduled for 2025, the festival will spotlight Katsina as a hub for cultural heritage, agricultural innovation, and economic development.

    Governor Radda stated that the festival would emphasise African cultural values while advancing food security, peace, and development across the ECOWAS region.

    It is expected to attract local and international investors in agriculture, boosting economic opportunities in Katsina State.

    The festival will also create a ripple effect across multiple industries, including event management, tourism, logistics, and local markets. These opportunities will benefit the state’s youth, artisans, and small businesses.

    Dr. Kabir Ali Masanawa, Executive Director/CEO of the Katsina State History and Culture Bureau, highlighted the festival’s potential to stimulate demand for hospitality services, food, and transportation.

    The influx of visitors will boost the local economy while showcasing Katsina’s rich cultural heritage.

    Ambassador Prince Felix Ihonre, Director-General of the ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, commended Governor Radda for his warm reception and unwavering support, describing the upcoming festival as a landmark event for the region.

    The 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival is expected to be a transformative event, reinforcing Katsina State’s role as a cultural and agricultural leader in West Africa.

    Continue Reading

    Trending