Takete Ide at 100: Fanwo calls for unity, support for community development

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Kogi Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr Kingsley Femi Fanwo, has called on Nigerians, particularly indigenes of Takete Ide in Mopamuro Local Government Area of the state, to participate in the community’s centenary celebration and support its development aspirations.

Fanwo, who chairs the Central Planning Committee for the celebration, said the milestone would provide an opportunity to honour the community’s founding figures and past leaders, preserve its cultural heritage and mobilise resources for future development.

He said the celebration would bring together indigenes at home and in the diaspora, friends of the community, tourists and other well-wishers to commemorate 100 years of the community’s history and shared identity.

According to him, the programme will feature cultural displays, youth sensitisation, health education and fundraising initiatives aimed at supporting community development projects.

A major highlight will be the unveiling of a book documenting the history of Takete Ide, an initiative designed to preserve the community’s historical experiences, traditions and values for future generations.

The programme will also feature an Award Night to recognise distinguished sons and daughters whose contributions have advanced the community’s development.

Posthumous awards will equally be presented to deserving individuals whose sacrifices and achievements helped shape the community.

Fanwo said a Praise Night would provide an opportunity for the people to express gratitude to God for His protection and guidance throughout the community’s history.

He explained that the combination of historical documentation, cultural activities, youth engagement and fundraising reflected the committee’s determination to make the centenary both memorable and beneficial to the community.

The commissioner disclosed that the celebration would be held under the chairmanship of the Managing Director of Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited, Prof. Abdulsalam Nasir Naeem.

The royal host of the event is the Olude of Takete Ide, His Royal Highness, Oba Philip Ebilakun.

Fanwo expressed optimism that the celebration would attract distinguished personalities from within and outside Kogi, providing an opportunity to showcase the community’s cultural heritage and development potential.

He urged sons and daughters of Takete Ide to use the occasion to strengthen communal bonds, celebrate their shared identity and renew their commitment to the progress of their ancestral home.

He also appealed to corporate organisations, public office holders, development partners and well-meaning Nigerians to identify with the celebration and support initiatives aimed at improving the community.

According to him, the centenary should go beyond festivities to inspire collective responsibility, encourage investment and promote sustainable development.

Fanwo expressed confidence that the milestone would deepen the people’s sense of pride and unity while ensuring that the history and legacy of Takete Ide remained alive for generations to come.