Residents of the Okeri Kingdom in Yagba West local government area of Kogi State have urged both the federal and state governments to assist them in harnessing their rich resources.
The plea was made during the inaugural Igbaraku Cultural Day.
During the event, Oba J.O. Babalola and Oba (Dr.) J.J. Falope highlighted the community’s peaceful and culturally rich environment, stressing unity and cooperation among its members.
They expressed concern over lack of progress in utilising the area’s abundant mineral resources, such as gold and columbite.
The national president of Igbaraku Oke-Eri Development Association, Elder Olusegun Joshua Ogunkolo underscored the historical significance of Igbaraku and appealed for the government’s support in infrastructural development and youth empowerment initiatives.
“We are determined to change the narrative from negative to positive and urge both the federal and state governments to assist us in infrastructural development and other empowerment initiatives benefiting youth, women, and traditional rulers,” he emphasized.
He urged all Igbaraku descendants to recognise the ongoing need for community service, stressing that only through joint efforts and collective responsibilities can they achieve their fundamental goals.
