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November 3, 2026November 3, 2026
From Celestine Ihejirika, Jalingo
The 2026 Igbo Cultural Day celebration in Taraba State has ended with a call on members of the Igbo community to sustain unity and peaceful coexistence with other ethnic groups in the state.
Governor Agbu Kefas made the call on Sunday in Jalingo during the 2026 Igbo Cultural Day celebration.
Represented at the event by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Chief Gebon Timothy Kataps, Esq., the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and pledged support for the association’s fundraising initiative.
Kefas described the Igbo community in Taraba as peace-loving and urged its members to continue promoting peace and unity.
He also welcomed the association’s endorsement of his second-term ambition and commended the Igbo community for its contributions to the economic and social development of the state.
In his address, the President of the association, Deacon Michael C. Adili, commended the governor for his support for the Igbo community and the appointment of people of Igbo extraction to positions of responsibility in his administration.
He said the appointments demonstrated political inclusion and recognition of the community’s contributions to the development of Taraba State.
Adili also praised the administration’s efforts to strengthen security and protect lives and property, describing them as essential to peaceful coexistence and economic development.
The Eze Igbo I of Taraba State, Igwe Wilfred Ibeh, called for the preservation of cultural identity and stronger relationships among the state’s diverse ethnic groups.
The Chairman of the occasion, Sir Ben Onyekere, also declared support for Kefas’s second-term ambition and pledged financial assistance towards the association’s coaster bus project.
Similarly, the Chief Launcher, High Chief Godson Aluka, described Taraba as a home for all residents, irrespective of their ethnic, cultural or religious backgrounds.
He called for unity and an end to ethnic discrimination, while urging young people to embrace entrepreneurship and self-reliance.
The Women Leader of the Igbo community, Hon. Ogechukwu Uofili, and Hon. Mercy James also expressed support for the governor’s re-election bid and pledged to mobilise women in the community.
The event also featured the conferment of the chieftaincy title of Ikenga Gbruru on Deacon Patrick Onyeka Okoro in recognition of his contributions to the Igbo community.
Speaking after receiving the title, Okoro thanked the association for the honour and said the Igbo people were committed to building businesses, maintaining peaceful relationships and contributing to the development of their host communities.
He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that would promote economic growth and development in Taraba State.
The celebration featured cultural performances and award presentations, attracting traditional rulers, political leaders, business executives and members of the Igbo community.
English (US) ·