News
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"> [adrotate banner="51"] Scheduled for Saturday, June 21, 2025, the 32nd edition of this annual cultural and development celebration stands out—not just as a commemoration of heritage but as a bold step toward the future.
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.
Author Profile
- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
Latest entries
PoliticsMay 2, 2026Fika Emirate Blessed YMK’s 2027 Presidency Presidential Ambition
PoliticsMay 1, 20262027 Presidential Election: YMK Emerges First Presidential Candidate, Contesting Against President Tinubu
PoliticsApril 23, 2026Yunusa Charges Team to intensify coordination, discipline as YMK Nigeria Steps on PRP Platform for 2027 Presidential Election
PoliticsApril 20, 2026Kogi Central APC Stakeholders Kick Against Imposition of Unpopular Candidate Endorse Obaro
News
Easter: Nigeria Must Do Better, NGIJ Warns Amid Rising Insecurity
By AbdulRahman Obaje
The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has issued a strongly worded Easter message, condemning worsening insecurity and demanding urgent action from security chiefs. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); [adrotate banner="51"]
In a statement signed by its National President, Abdulrahman Aliagan, and National Secretary, Rowland Olonishuwa, the Guild said Nigeria must confront its security failures without delay.
The Guild congratulated Christians across Nigeria and the world on the Easter celebration, noting that the season crowns weeks of sacrifice, reflection, and spiritual renewal.
It also acknowledged that Muslims recently concluded Ramadan and celebrated Eid al-Fitr, describing both religious observances as powerful symbols of discipline and devotion.
NGIJ said the overlapping spiritual journeys of Christians and Muslims highlight a shared national lesson on unity and peaceful coexistence.
However, the Guild warned that the current security reality contradicts those values, as many communities continue to live in utter dread.
It described the recent killings in Jos as a grim reminder of deep cracks within the nation’s security architecture pointing out that the violence goes beyond headlines, insisting that it reflects systemic failure.
NGIJ condemned the bloodshed in the strongest terms possible and criticised what it called the growing helplessness of authorities. It argued that routine condemnations and post-attack visits by the relevant authorities saddled with the responsibility of securing lives and properties no longer satisfy public expectations.
The statement stressed that repeated promises without visible results only deepen public frustration and grief.
NGIJ maintained that every Nigerian deserves safety at home, in places of worship, and in public spaces while stressing that government must treat that responsibility as a non-negotiable duty.
The Guild urged security chiefs to respond with urgency, intelligence, and clear results. It insisted that those unable to guarantee safety should step aside for more capable leadership.
NGIJ also clarified that its position reflects a moral duty rather than political bias while noting that Easter symbolises sacrifice, accountability, and renewal, adding that real change requires courage and action.
It warned Nigerians against yielding to fear or division despite the tense climate and encouraged citizens to protect unity and resist forces that thrive on chaos.
The Guild reaffirmed its commitment to investigative journalism, promising to pursue truth and hold power accountable. It also pledged to amplify the voices of victims often ignored in national discourse.
NGIJ concluded that hope must translate into action, urging the nation to confront its challenges with urgency.
Author Profile
- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
Latest entries
- PoliticsMay 2, 2026Fika Emirate Blessed YMK’s 2027 Presidency Presidential Ambition
- PoliticsMay 1, 20262027 Presidential Election: YMK Emerges First Presidential Candidate, Contesting Against President Tinubu
- PoliticsApril 23, 2026Yunusa Charges Team to intensify coordination, discipline as YMK Nigeria Steps on PRP Platform for 2027 Presidential Election
- PoliticsApril 20, 2026Kogi Central APC Stakeholders Kick Against Imposition of Unpopular Candidate Endorse Obaro
Legislative
NGIJ Targets Stronger Democracy Through Partnership with NILDS
By AbdulRahman Obaje
The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has sought a strategic partnership with the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) to enhance legislative reporting, strengthen democratic accountability, and promote evidence-based journalism in Nigeria. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); [adrotate banner="51"]
The proposal was made during a courtesy visit by the NGIJ delegation, led by its President, Mallam Abdulrahman Aliagan, to the Institute’s headquarters in Abuja.
The Director-General of NILDS, Professor Abubakar O. Suleiman, was represented at the meeting by the Director of Legal Services, Professor Ibrahim Danwanka. Also in attendance were the Special Adviser to the DG on Media, Mr. Muhammad Abdulkadir and the Director of Information, Mr. Emmanuel Atakpo.
Speaking during the visit, Aliagan described the engagement as a strategic step toward building synergy between investigative journalism and legislative research institutions. He commended the leadership of Professor Suleiman for transforming NILDS into a leading centre for legislative studies and democratic governance in Africa.
“This visit is not merely ceremonial—it is deeply strategic. NGIJ and NILDS share a common vision of strengthening democracy, promoting accountability, and deepening good governance in Nigeria,” Aliagan said.
He explained that while NILDS advances democratic governance through research and legislative capacity development, NGIJ complements these efforts through investigative journalism and public-interest reporting.
Aliagan highlighted the Guild’s activities across the country, particularly its Governance Assessment Visits conducted in Kogi, Bayelsa, Ondo, Kwara, Osun, and Kaduna states, noting that such engagements have improved public discourse and strengthened accountability at the subnational level.
“Our mission is to promote ethical investigative journalism, strengthen transparency in governance, and build capacity for data-driven reporting that connects citizens with democratic institutions,” he said.
The NGIJ President also proposed collaboration in areas such as training on legislative processes, joint research and publications, policy dialogues, data sharing, and fellowship programmes for journalists and researchers.
He further informed the Institute of the Guild’s plan to host the Dele Giwa Memorial Annual Lecture on Investigative Journalism in June as part of activities marking Democracy Day. The Guild requested that Professor Suleiman serve as keynote speaker and sought approval to use NILDS’ auditorium for the event.
“We are confident that your presence and intellectual contribution will greatly enrich the discourse and lend national significance to the event,” Aliagan added.
Responding on behalf of the Director-General, Professor Danwanka welcomed the proposal and described the initiative as timely and beneficial to national development. He commended NGIJ for its commitment to accountability journalism and its recognition of the Institute’s growing impact.
“If there is any institution journalists need to collaborate with, it is NILDS.
Legislative reporting requires specialised knowledge that many journalists currently lack,” Danwanka said.
He explained that NILDS was established by an Act of Parliament in 2011 and later expanded in 2017 to include broader responsibilities covering democratic institutions and civil society organisations.
According to him, the Institute has grown significantly under Professor Suleiman’s leadership, expanding from four departments to eleven, with increased staff strength and wider national, regional, and continental visibility.
Danwanka noted that NILDS currently provides research and capacity-building support not only to Nigeria’s legislature but also to parliaments across West Africa and other parts of the continent, including Kenya, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Ghana, and Togo.
“Legislature is a specialised field. Even experts from other disciplines must acquire knowledge of its processes to report it accurately. That is where NILDS comes in,” he said.
He assured the NGIJ delegation that all requests presented during the visit, including collaboration proposals, the use of the Institute’s facilities, and the invitation to the DG would be communicated for necessary action.
Danwanka also acknowledged NGIJ’s commendation of the appointment of Mr. Abdulkadir as Special Adviser on Media, describing the recognition as thoughtful and well-deserved.
The meeting ended with both parties expressing optimism about establishing a formal framework for collaboration, with a shared commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and improving governance through knowledge-driven journalism.
“This engagement marks the beginning of a sustainable partnership that will advance legislative excellence and investigative journalism in Nigeria,” Danwanka said.
Author Profile
- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
Latest entries
- PoliticsMay 2, 2026Fika Emirate Blessed YMK’s 2027 Presidency Presidential Ambition
- PoliticsMay 1, 20262027 Presidential Election: YMK Emerges First Presidential Candidate, Contesting Against President Tinubu
- PoliticsApril 23, 2026Yunusa Charges Team to intensify coordination, discipline as YMK Nigeria Steps on PRP Platform for 2027 Presidential Election
- PoliticsApril 20, 2026Kogi Central APC Stakeholders Kick Against Imposition of Unpopular Candidate Endorse Obaro
News
NGIJ urges unity, cautions politicians against divisive rhetoric ahead of 2027
The Nigeria Guild of Investigative Journalism (NGIJ) has called on Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence and warned political actors against exploiting religious and ethnic divisions as the country gradually approaches the 2027 general elections. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); js"> [adrotate banner="51"]
In a statement issued on Friday to mark the 2026 Eid al-Fitr celebration, and jointly signed by its National President, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, and National Secretary, Rowland Olonishuwa, the Guild congratulated Muslim faithful on the successful completion of Ramadan.
The Guild noted that this year’s Ramadan coincided with the Christian Lenten season, describing the alignment as a “rare and powerful symbolism” that underscores shared values across faiths.
According to the statement, both periods called for reflection, sacrifice, discipline, and compassion, stressing that such common ideals should serve as a foundation for national unity.
“For weeks, across mosques and churches, Nigerians prayed, fasted, gave to the needy, and sought a better version of themselves. If we can endure hardship together in pursuit of spiritual growth, then we can certainly live together in peace,” the Guild said.
However, NGIJ expressed concern over rising tensions in the country, warning that differences are increasingly being weaponised, particularly along religious and ethnic lines.
The Guild emphasised that the lessons of Ramadan and Lent should not end with celebrations but must be reflected in citizens’ daily conduct, urging Nigerians to embrace patience, empathy, and truth in their interactions.
While addressing the political class, the organisation cautioned against early signs of divisive campaigning ahead of the 2027 elections, including the spread of misinformation and fear-based rhetoric.
“We are already seeing early signs of the familiar playbook, divisive rhetoric, calculated misinformation, and appeals to fear rather than reason. That path is dangerous and ultimately destructive,” the statement read.
NGIJ urged politicians, political parties, and aspirants to focus on issue-based campaigns, particularly on the economy, security, and governance, rather than resorting to identity politics.
It warned that power gained through division could undermine national stability, stressing that Nigeria cannot afford another election cycle that deepens societal fractures.
The Guild also reaffirmed its commitment to accountability and responsible journalism, pledging to continue challenging false narratives and exposing misinformation.
“A peaceful and informed society requires citizens who think critically and reject manipulation,” it added.
The statement concluded by describing Eid al-Fitr as not only a moment of celebration but also a test of collective responsibility, urging Nigerians to choose unity over division in the interest of national progress.
Author Profile
- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
Latest entries
- PoliticsMay 2, 2026Fika Emirate Blessed YMK’s 2027 Presidency Presidential Ambition
- PoliticsMay 1, 20262027 Presidential Election: YMK Emerges First Presidential Candidate, Contesting Against President Tinubu
- PoliticsApril 23, 2026Yunusa Charges Team to intensify coordination, discipline as YMK Nigeria Steps on PRP Platform for 2027 Presidential Election
- PoliticsApril 20, 2026Kogi Central APC Stakeholders Kick Against Imposition of Unpopular Candidate Endorse Obaro