Ehis Agbon and Peter Jatau, Hamland, Kaduna State — April 18, 2025
In a grand traditional ceremony held in Kwoi, the heartland of the Ham (Jaba) people in Southern Kaduna, the Lord Mayor of Leeds, UK, Abigail Marshall Katung, was bestowed with the revered title of Gimbiyan Jaba (Princess of Ham) by His Royal Majesty, The Kpop Ham, Dr. Danladi Gyet Maude, OON.
Mayor Abigail, a native of Nigeria and an accomplished public servant in the United Kingdom, was honoured for her contributions to the upliftment of communities both at home and abroad. Her coronation marks a historic moment as she becomes one of the first serving mayors in the diaspora to receive such recognition from her ancestral homeland.
She was honoured alongside several other distinguished individuals for their exceptional service to the Ham Nation:
- General Martin Luther Agwai – Sarkin Yakin Jaba (Warlord of Ham)
- Barr. Dr. Deborah Usman – Jakadiyan Jaba (Queen’s Messenger of Ham)
- Dr. Gideon Jock – Hasken Jaba (Light of Ham)
- Dr. Dogara Gyet – Jagaban Jaba (Champion of Ham)
Senator Barrister Sunday Marshall Katung, who represents Kaduna South Senatorial District and is also the husband of Mayor Abigail, expressed joy and pride in the recognition accorded his wife. In a congratulatory message, he described the honour as “a testament to [her] unwavering commitment, integrity, and service to our people,” adding that “the Ham Nation is truly blessed to have leaders like you.”
The event was attended by dignitaries, traditional rulers, community leaders, and well-wishers from within and outside Nigeria, highlighting the unity and cultural pride of the Ham people.
The traditional titles serve not only as symbols of honour but also as a call to continued service and leadership in the community and beyond.
