By Ehis Agbon, Kaduna, Nigeria.
Jema’a, Kaduna State — The Gwong people of Kaduna State gathered on Saturday at the Gwong Development Association Complex in Jema’a Local Government Area to celebrate the 2025 Khituk Gwong Cultural Festival. After a three-year hiatus due to security challenges, the festival made a triumphant return, emphasizing the resilience and unity of the Gwong community.
This year’s festival, themed “Gwong Heritage: Embracing Our Roots, Inspiring Our Future,” was organized by the Gwong Traditional Council and the Gwong Development Association (GDA). The event aimed to promote unity and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Gwong people for future generations.
Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, representing Kaduna South Senatorial District, highlighted the significance of cultural festivals in fostering national unity and social cohesion. He remarked, “Cultural festivals play a vital role in preserving our traditions, fostering social bonds, boosting tourism, and promoting group identity and unity.”
A notable highlight of the festival was the conferment of the title “Ndok Gwong Chiefdom” (Friend of Gwong Chiefdom) upon Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd). The Kpop Gwong, Col. Paul Zakka Wyoms (Rtd), praised Gen. Buratai’s transformative leadership as the former Chief of Army Staff and his unwavering commitment to national security and the welfare of military personnel. Gen. Buratai, who hails from Buratai town in Borno State, was appointed Chief of Army Staff in July 2015 and later served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin. Rear Admiral Abdul Biu Adamu (Rtd), who represented Gen. Buratai at the event, expressed gratitude for the honor and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Gwong people.
The festival also attracted numerous distinguished guests, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, and representatives of key political figures. The Khituk Gwong Cultural Festival not only celebrated the achievements of leaders like Gen. Buratai but also reinforced the community’s spirit and traditions. As the event concluded, attendees departed with a renewed pride in their heritage and a commitment to fostering unity and progress within the Gwong Chiefdom.
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