The Tiv community in Sokoto State came together in a colourful display of culture, music and tradition as members celebrated their annual Cultural Day while unveiling plans to build a permanent secretariat and skills acquisition centre for future generations.
The event, organised by Mdzough U Tiv, attracted Tiv sons and daughters from different parts of Benue State who are resident in Sokoto, alongside traditional rulers, government officials and military representatives.
Welcoming guests, President of the Tiv Community in Sokoto, Comrade Asor Joseph Kator, thanked God for bringing members together to celebrate their identity and strengthen the bond that unites them.
“It is my great pleasure and privilege to warmly welcome everyone to this special occasion. As we celebrate today, let us continue to promote peace, unity, love, and understanding among ourselves and with the wider community in Sokoto State,” he said.
He described the celebration as more than a cultural festival, saying it was an opportunity to preserve Tiv traditions, language and values for younger generations.
“Today is not only a day of celebration, but also an opportunity for us to remember and promote the values, traditions, language and unity that make the Tiv people unique,” Kator added.
He also announced that the community had launched a campaign to raise funds for the construction of the Mdzough U Tiv Secretariat, Skills Acquisition and Investments Centre in Sokoto.
According to him, “this project is intended to provide a strong institutional home for our community, while creating opportunities for skills development, empowerment, entrepreneurship and investments, particularly for our young generation.”
Representing the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Major General Paul Kouhna, the chairman of the occasion, Mr. Henry Orsule, commended the Tiv people for remaining united despite living outside their home state.
He urged members of the community to continue to obey the law, contribute positively to society and preserve the spirit of brotherhood that has kept them together over the years.
Chairman of the Tiv Cultural Day Planning Committee, Comrade Micheal Agber, appreciated individuals and organisations that supported the event financially and materially.
He appealed to Tiv people living in Sokoto to remain united and continue supporting one another for the growth and welfare of the community.
Among the dignitaries at the celebration were the Sarkin Tiv, Sokoto, Chief Martins Terluun Fela (Ter U Tiv); the Tor Kwase U Mdzough U Tiv, Sokoto, Loan Kwase Wandoo Bookwagh; Tyoor Pusu Chief Avalumum Amee, Tyoor Ichongo Chief Timothy Sawua; Tiv Community Women Leader, Mrs. Mson Deborah Akahaan; Chairman of Gwer Local Government, Hon. Timothy Terseer Joseph; Chairman of Jechira Local Government, Hon. Chief Fabian Katsina; Chairman of Jemgbagh Local Government, Hon. Akpen Moses Terdue; as well as representatives from Kwande and Sada Local Government Areas.
The celebration featured colourful cultural displays, traditional dances and performances that reflected the rich heritage of the Tiv people while reinforcing the importance of preserving their identity and promoting peaceful coexistence with other ethnic groups in Sokoto State.
