Ododo, Lokoja Council Urged To Sustain Annual Boat Regatta

The Kogi State government and Lokoja local government have been urged to take over the annual sponsorship of the Lokoja Boat Regatta to sustain the cultural festival and promote unity among the people.

The chairman of Lokoja Forum of Patriots, Alhaji Idris Bagaango, made the appeal at the seventh edition of the Lokoja Boat Regatta held on Saturday at the Kabawa Waterfront, along Lokoja International Market.
Bagaango said the annual event, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Lokoja and its riverine communities, had become financially demanding for the organisers, hence the need for government support to ensure its sustainability.

He appealed to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and the Lokoja Local Government chairman to provide annual sponsorship for the festival, describing it as an important platform for promoting cultural preservation, friendship and unity among the people.

He expressed appreciation to the Maigari of Lokoja, Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Gambo Muhammed Kabir Maikarfi IV Badadoshi, for his support and approval for the event.

Bagaango also commended the Chairman of the occasion, Barrister Ahmed Naseer, the Dan-Darman of Lokoja; the special guest of honour, Senator Tunde Ogbeha Lakpini of Lokoja; the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Alhaji Aliyu Umar Yusuf, the Badakoshi of Lokoja; and other individuals who supported the festival financially and morally.

He further acknowledged the contributions of traditional rulers, including the Rogan of Eggan, Agankyu of Kakanda, Olu of Oworo, Mayai of Kupa and Etsu of Adankolo, alongside other chiefs and Hakimis.