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Ekinrin-Adde Sets the Stage for Historic 2025 Festival
- Launches N600m Development Fund
By Abdulrahman Aliagan, Abuja
As the lush green hills of Ekinrin-Adde prepare to echo with the sounds of drums, chants, laughter, and the vibrant presence of its sons, daughters, and friends from across the globe, the stage is set for what promises to be the most historic edition yet of the Ekinrin-Adde Day Festival. googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">
Ekinrin-Adde Day, like the renowned Ojude Oba Festival of Ijebu and Lisabi Day in Abeokuta, has evolved into a symbol of cultural pride and developmental self-determination for the people of this iconic community in the western senatorial district of Kogi State. Nestled within the heart of Ijumu Local Government Area, Ekinrin-Adde is no ordinary town. It is a trailblazer, a pacesetter in grassroots-driven development, and a model for other Nigerian communities.
This year, the festival carries a deeper significance with the official launch of a ₦600 Million Infrastructural Development Fund. This ambitious community-driven initiative seeks to accelerate critical projects across the town, reinforcing Ekinrin-Adde’s long-standing tradition of self-help and collective responsibility.
At a pre-event World Press Briefing held in anticipation of the grand celebration, Dr. Deinde Komolafe, the National President of the Ekinrin-Adde Community Development Association (EACDA), captured the spirit of the event with solemn pride. He described the annual festival as “a sacred meeting point between our past, our present responsibilities, and our collective future.”
He stressed that Ekinrin-Adde Day is not just a cultural festival but a reaffirmation of resilience, innovation, unity, and shared purpose.
Dr. Komolafe extended a passionate call to all sons and daughters of the land, as well as well-wishers and development partners, urging them to support the fundraising campaign that will shape the town’s next chapter.
Indeed, Ekinrin-Adde is no stranger to milestones. Historically, it holds the enviable record of being the first community in Ijumu LGA to establish a secondary school, a maternity centre, a postal agency, a community bank in 1985—known then as IBWA, later evolving into Afribank and ultimately Ekinrin-Adde Community Bank in 1992—and the first to host two secondary schools. These achievements underscore the community’s unrelenting spirit of progress through collective action.
Adding her voice to the ongoing preparations, Dr. (Chief) Mrs. Bukola Olorundami Ayeni, the National Vice President 3 of the EACDA, emphasized the critical role of women in shaping the community’s fortunes. She noted that from the earliest days of self-help movements to present-day development strategies, women have remained the pillars of strength and commitment. “The Ekinrin-Adde Day gives us a platform to showcase our cultural beauty and to remind the world that women are central to our community’s renaissance,” she stated.
In a tone that blended administrative clarity with cultural pride, Engr. Babalola Kayode Sunday, the National General Secretary of EACDA, spoke on the importance of preserving Ekinrin-Adde’s evolving story.
“We are not just celebrating heritage—we are making history. This festival gives us the opportunity to document our legacy, build stronger unity, and inspire the next generation. What we do now will echo in generations to come,” he affirmed.
The 2025 festival is set to be richer in content and more engaging than ever. For the first time, a structured essay writing competition will feature as part of the event.
Designed to stimulate intellectual engagement among the youth, the competition is championed by Professor Gbenga Ibileye, the Provost of the College of Postgraduate Studies at the Federal University, Lokoja. As the Chairman of the Essay Competition Sub-Committee and a respected scholar from the community, Prof. Ibileye sees this initiative as a crucial bridge between culture and intellect. “It’s about teaching our young people that tradition and critical thinking go hand in hand. This competition allows them to write themselves into history,” he said.
The festival will also feature traditional food exhibitions, vibrant cultural fashion displays, processions by community branches from home and abroad, re-enactments of native marriage rites, clan-based oral poetry, and numerous cultural contests—all set to enthrall guests and dignitaries.
These elements are expected to not only elevate the aesthetic of the festival but also deepen the understanding and preservation of Ekinrin-Adde’s rich heritage.
Prince Babajide Kolade Otitoju, the ace broadcaster with TVC News and a proud son of Ekinrin-Adde, spoke emotionally about the festival’s broader significance. Known for his incisive commentary on the popular “Journalists’ Hangout,” Otitoju reflected: “Ekinrin-Adde Day shows what is possible when communities take ownership of their development. It is a story worth telling and an example the world should see.”
From the media frontlines to the pulse of public mobilisation, Emmanuel Ogungbuyi, the National Publicity Secretary of the EACDA, shared insights into the festival’s expansive reach. “We’re bringing home the sons and daughters of Ekinrin-Adde from across continents. From North America to Europe, from Lagos to Lokoja, this festival is becoming a global movement. This year’s celebration will redefine cultural tourism in Kogi State and Nigeria as a whole,” he declared with conviction.
Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, a proud son of the land and the National Publicity Secretary of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), added a thoughtful reflection on the transformative potential of the festival. He described Ekinrin-Adde as a grassroots model of what can be achieved through unity and vision. “This community is a living testament to what development looks like when driven from within. What we have here is not just heritage—it’s a strategy, and the world should come and learn from us.”
This year’s edition will also honour the accomplishments of notable figures from Ekinrin-Adde who have made indelible marks on national development and many others friends of the community from across the country whose their contributions will continue to uplift the name of the community.
As the countdown to June 21 begins, the excitement across the community is palpable.
Preparations are in full swing, with hospitality arrangements, rehearsals, and logistics being fine-tuned. But beyond the fanfare lies a deeper aspiration—the dream of a better, stronger, more united Ekinrin-Adde that thrives through its people’s collective vision.
To tourists, cultural enthusiasts, investors, and development partners across the world, the Ekinrin-Adde Community Development Association extends an open invitation to witness a festival that promises not only colour and music but meaning, inspiration, and a window into one of Nigeria’s most progressive indigenous communities.
Ekinrin-Adde Day 2025 is not just another cultural event. It is a powerful narrative of identity, achievement, and collective ambition. For those seeking to witness culture in motion and development in practice, this small town in Ijumu is the place to be.
On June 21, come to Ekinrin-Adde – where heritage meets hope, and culture becomes a call to greatness.
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Insecurity: Ododo Briefs President Tinubu On Proactive Measures Put In Place
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi state on Monday, paid a working visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, at the State House, Abuja, briefing him on proactive measures put in place to tackle insecurity and the overall development of the state. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">
Kogi State’s Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo in a statement made available to journalists in Lokoja, indicates that Governor Ododo during the visit, highlighted the proactive measures being taken by the state government in collaboration with security agencies to safeguard lives and property.
According to the commissioner, Governor Ododo expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for his consistent and unwavering support, particularly in bolstering security operations across Kogi State.
He noted that the federal backing has significantly enhanced the capacity of security forces to respond swiftly and effectively to threats.
Governor Ododo also conveyed the profound gratitude of the Government and the good people of Kogi State to the President for the landmark approval of the Ajaokuta Economic City, also known as the Kogi–Hunan Free Trade Zone.
He described the project as a historic and transformative initiative that will reposition Kogi as a major industrial and investment hub, create massive employment opportunities, and stimulate sustainable economic growth.
In his response, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, commended Governor Ododo for his effective leadership and strong collaboration with federal security agencies in tackling security challenges in the state. The President assured him of the Federal Government’s continued support in both security and development efforts.
The high-level meeting also featured fruitful discussions focused on advancing infrastructural development, expanding economic opportunities, and improving the overall well-being of the people of Kogi State.
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Kogi State Intercept Child Trafficking
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Kogi State Government has successful intercepted a group of underaged children trafficked into the State, in what is suspected to be a covert recruitment attempt for banditry training. adsbygoogle || []).push({});
The State’s Commissioner of Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo in a statement, disclosed that at about 1500hrs on December 5, 2025, eagle-eyed security operatives of the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Yagba Area Command in collaboration with other security agencies in Isanlu, acting on credible intelligence from community hunters, intercepted a truck conveying 21 children aged between 6 and 17 years into Kogi State.
According to the statement “Initial investigations revealed that the children had been moved from different northern states under suspicious circumstances by adults who could not provide legitimate justification for their movement.
“Several suspects linked to the trafficking operation have been arrested, including individuals who claimed they were transporting the children to establish an informal “Islamic school” within Yagba East.
” Further arrests were made as security operatives intensified surveillance within the area, uncovering additional persons allegedly connected to the movement of the minors. Some of the suspects were also found with items raising significant security concerns.
“The rescued children have since been transferred to the State Command of the NSCDC in Lokoja for detailed investigation and proper profiling of all persons involved.
“His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, Executive Governor of Kogi State, has directed the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to take full custody of the underaged victims, ensure their wellbeing, and provide the necessary psychosocial support pending the conclusion of investigations.
“Upon completion of profiling and verification, the children will be handed over to their respective State Governments for further investigation and eventual reintegration with their families. Meanwhile, all individuals found culpable in this trafficking operation will be prosecuted in line with Kogi State’s Child Trafficking and Child Rights Protection Laws.
“The Kogi State Government reiterates its uncompromising stance against child trafficking, criminal infiltration, and any form of security threat. The administration of Governor Ododo will continue to work closely with security agencies and local communities to safeguard every part of the State.
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President Tinubu Extols Late Prince Abubakar Audu’s Legacies
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described late Prince Abubakar Audu as a “friend, ally, and trailblazer of democracy declaring that his foot-print in Kogi state as former Governor remains the best since the creation of the state. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">
The President gave the commendation while speaking at the 10th Memorial Anniversary and Book Presentation organised by the state government in collaboration with the immediate family in honour of the late political ICON
Tinubu who was represented by the Hon. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, lauded late Prince Audu’s commitment to democratic ideals and the development of Kogi State.
President Tinubu noted that Prince Audu’s leadership was marked by courage, vision, and dedication to the prosperity and security of his people, calling his legacy “a living template for good governance” that continues to inspire leaders across the nation.
The event drew political leaders, statesmen, and dignitaries from across Nigeria, including the representation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to commemorate a decade since the passing of the iconic leader whose vision and leadership continue to influence the political and developmental trajectory of Kogi State.
Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, son of the late statesman, reaffirmed his commitment to advancing his father’s legacy.
He described the memorial as a solemn reminder of the enduring influence Prince Audu holds in the hearts of the people and the continued relevance of his contributions to the growth of Kogi State.
The Minister recalled his father’s visionary leadership, foundational reforms, and passion for public service, noting that successive administrations still draw from the structures and institutions he established.
Prince Shuaibu Audu highlighted his ongoing efforts to revitalize the Ajaokuta Steel Company and strengthen Nigeria’s steel sector as a continuation of his father’s dream for industrial and economic development in Kogi State.
He thanked all partners and stakeholders supporting these initiatives, reiterating that the collective aspiration for a stronger Kogi State and a more prosperous Nigeria is rooted in his father’s enduring vision.
The Minister also expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for his continuous support to the Audu family.
He also thanked the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, CON, who attended the event. He described Senator Akume as a friend and colleague of his late father from the class of 1999 governors, acknowledging his role in supporting and honouring Prince Audu’s memory.
He further commended the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and members of the State Executive Council for hosting the memorial as a state event, noting that it reflects the enduring respect Kogi State holds for Prince Audu.
He also acknowledged former Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello, CON, Capt. Idris Wada, and Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke for their continued dedication to preserving his father’s legacy, describing their presence as a testament to the late leader’s far-reaching impact.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, Chief Host of the event, described Prince Audu as a visionary leader whose transformative governance continues to shape Kogi State.
In a symbolic tribute, he announced the renaming of a major township road as Prince Abubakar Audu Boulevard, directing relevant agencies to install signage, repair roads, install streetlights, and beautify the area. The Governor emphasised that these measures are part of his administration’s ongoing commitment to uphold Prince Audu’s ideals of unity, progress, and service to the people.
In his remarks, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume CON said that the late Prince Abubakar Audu was marked as an icon of development and great vision, noting his contribution to the development of Benue State in the time he served in Benue State.
He described him as a man who was genuinely loved by his people as one of the first Nigerians that won in a free, fair and credible elections.
The immediate past governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Adoza Bello urged everyone to reflect on the life and times of the late former governor who was a revolutionary and served with all sincerity, who while in office took bold steps that have continued to impact positively of the people of Kogi State and Nigeria even long after his demise.
The memorial also featured the inauguration of the Board of Trustees of the Prince Abubakar Audu Leadership Foundation, alongside a lecture and book review of “Prince Abubakar Audu: A Legacy of Visionary Leadership”, reviewed by former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Adetokunbo Kayode, SAN.
Other dignitaries present included former Governors Capt. Idris Wada and Yahaya Adoza Bello, Rt. Hon. James Faleke, and numerous political and community leaders who paid tribute to the late statesman.
The 10th memorial celebration served as both a solemn remembrance and a reaffirmation of the enduring impact of Prince Abubakar Audu’s leadership, inspiring current and future generations to continue the work of unity, progress, and transformative governance in Kogi State.
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