Obasanjo, Atiku, Osinbajo To Attend Dr. Achema’s 26th Memorial Lecture

Former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former vice presidents Atiku Abubakar and Yemi Osinbajo are among prominent Nigerians expected at the 26th memorial lecture of the late Dr. Steven Makoji Achema slated for November 29 December 1, 2025 in Abuja.

The Dr. Steven Makoji Achema Foundation, in a notice issued yesterday ahead of the event, said this year’s activities had been consolidated under its platform to ensure a coordinated commemoration of the late statesman’s legacy. The programme will feature sports events, a public colloquium and a fundraising session.

The memorial opened yesterday with the semifinals of a five-aside novelty football match at the Paulad Sports Centre in Kubwa, where Achema FC, AT Ahmed FC, Ododo FC and Wada FC were expected to compete. The final match will be played Sunday at the same venue.

Earlier on Monday, a colloquium will take place at the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development, Pallen Tallen Banquet Hall opposite CBN Building Central Area Garki,  Abuja, FCT between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. The sessions will focus on unity, leadership and development issues in Igalaland and Kogi East, with speakers drawn from academia, public service and the private sector.

Those expected to deliver papers include Mathias King Akoh, Samson Achenyo Abutu, Hon. Daniel Achema, A.A. Suleiman and Dr. Darlington Chibabi. Dr. Ibrahim Wada of Nisa Premier Hospital is billed as the star presenter.

A panel of discussants comprising technocrats, traditional figures and community leaders will also participate in the dialogue.

The foundation listed members of its Elders’ Council to include Chief James Alabi Okai, Prof. Joe Idachaba, Barr. Humphrey Abah, AVM Salifu Atawodi and Engr. Musa Wada, among others.

Other dignitaries expected at the memorial include Gen. T.Y. Danjuma (rtd.), Prof. Jerry Gana, Dr. Bitrus Pogu, Chief Thomas Akoh Etuh, Chief Tunde Ayeni, and several current and former senators.

Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman will serve as chief host, supported by Deputy Governor Elder Joel Oyibo, minister of steel development, Alh. Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, and Hon. Daniel Achema, the first son of the late Dr. Achema. The Atta of Igala, the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland and the Obaro of Kabba are also expected as royal fathers of the day.

The Local Organising Committee, chaired by Hon. Dan Achema, is coordinating preparations for the event, which the foundation says is aimed at sustaining the legacy of the late Dr. Achema 26 years after his passing.