10th Royal Anniversary: VP Shettima, Gov Sule, over 50 monarchs, converge on Keffi

BY FRANCIS NANSAK, LAFIA

A bevy of activities commenced on Friday at the Emir of Keffi’s palace, where he bestowed traditional titles on eminent sons and daughters of Nasarawa State, marking his tenth year on the throne (2015-2025).

On Saturday, at the Government College ground, over 50 first-class traditional rulers from across Northern and Eastern Nigeria joined the Emir of Keffi, Dr. Shehu Usman Chindo Yamusa III, to celebrate his tenth year on the throne as the 15th Emir of Keffi.

The venue was saturated with men of the Nigerian security forces and hunters’ groups, and a police helicopter was spotted patrolling the arena.

The tenth anniversary, in its colourful character, featured cultural dancers from Plateau, Benue, Kogi, and Igbo cultural groups, among others, thrilling dignitaries.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Senator Dr. Abdullah Adamu, represented by Dr. Yahaya Kana, specially welcomed the Royal Father of Sokoto and Sultan to commemorate the Emir of Keffi’s tenth year anniversary.

In a goodwill message, the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr. Aminu Muazu Maifata, said development in the state cannot be separated from traditional rulers’ contributions.

“I want to thank the Governor for enabling the ministry’s success. I must say the Governor always grants requests from traditional rulers, giving maximum attention to their matters. That’s what you’re witnessing here today in Keffi, celebrating His Royal Highness’s tenth year. I congratulate him and wish everyone a safe return to their destinations,” he added.

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Mohammed Bage, Eze Ibo Keffi, and his Ekiti State counterpart all congratulated the Emir of Keffi for completing ten years on the throne, praying for continuous peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.

In appreciation, the Emir of Keffi, Dr. Shehu Chindo Yamusa III, said his ten years reminded him of his father, Alhaji Dr. Chindo Yamusa II, who passed away ten years ago. He thanked eminent traditional rulers, the Nasarawa State government, and federal and state legislators.

Dr. Shehu Chindo Yamusa specially thanked Vice President Dr. Shetima Kashim for honouring the invitation via a representative, and graciously thanked President and Grand Commander of the Nigerian Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his unwavering decision and policy to reverse economic and security challenges in the country.