***Eulogies Kogi Poly Rector, Prof. Usman as worthy ambassador
By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja.
HIS Royal Highness (HRH) Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Kabir Gambo Makarfi IV, the Maigari of Lokoja, has commissioned the newly rehabilitated Ankpa Township Stadium paving way for the Ejeh Ankpa Unity Cup final competition.
Performing the ceremony at the Ankpa Township Stadium, the the Maigari of Lokoja said the formal inauguration of the rehabilitated stadium would pave way for the Ejeh Ankpa Unity Cup competition final.
He said that there has been a long-standing Royal affinity between the Ankpa royal family and the Maigari family over the years.
The Maigari confirmed his roots; “My mother was Igala from Idah, though I regret not speaking the language.”
The Royal Father who was accompanied by dignitaries including the Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Prof. Salisu Ogbo Usman, emphasized the importance of the stadium to the people of Ankpa especially, the youth.
He then commended Prof. Usman; saying, “I am very proud of him for what he has done at Kogi State Polytechnic Lokoja. He is a worthy ambassador of Ankpa and Igala Kingdom.”
Earlier in his welcome address whole receiving the visiting royal train at his Palace, HRH Alhaji (Dr) Sadiq Ahmed Yakubu, the Ejeh of Ankpa, underscored the historic bonds between the two royal families.
He said, “The Maigari is not a stranger; his mother is Igala from Idah! Our fathers were friends as Kings – today we continue that legacy.”
The Ejeh notably commended Prof. Usman, a son of the soil, for the laudable roles he had played in the rehabilitation of the stadium and for being part of the royal entourage.
Prof. Salisu Ogbo Usman also used the occasion to celebrate and honour of of his loyalists, Yunusa Abuh, who was coronated as Gago of Angwa Ebitakpa (with traditional salutation Saaki).
In an interview with Prof. Usman on the sidelines of the occasion, the Rector thanked both monarchs saying, “This royal synergy is pivotal for regional progress.”
The event was graced by prominent chiefs, community leaders, and dignitaries from across Kogi State. (Ends)