Taraba Gov Reaffirms Commitment to Cultural Heritage at 2025 Sungki Yandang Carnival
Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
The Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has reaffirm his administration’s dedication to cultural preservation.
Kpan Sanwi
The Governor represented by the Secretary to the Government of the State (SGS), Chief Barr. Gebon Timothy Kataps Ngwii,stated this during the 2025 Maiden Sungki Yandang Carnival celebrations held at the Government Day Secondary School, Sayonti, Mayo Lope, Lau Local Government, Taraba State.
He emphasized that reviving and safeguarding Taraba’s diverse traditions remains a key priority for the present administration.
“Our cultural heritage is the soul of our people. It binds us together, tells our story, and guides our future. This administration is resolute in protecting and promoting the customs, languages, and festivals of every community, including Yadang,” he stated.
He said that Governor Kefas has consistently advocated for cultural preservation, recognizing festivals as platforms to foster unity, promote peace, and stimulate economic growth through tourism.
“His broader vision is to position Taraba as a premier cultural tourism destination in Nigeria by supporting community initiatives and promoting the establishment of cultural centers and museums.
Speaking, the Kpang Sanwi 1 of Sanwi Chiefdom, HRH Pastor Daa – Haniel Hinlewheni Banti, said that the essence of the cultural heritage is to bind communities together across time, space and provides a sense of identity, belongings and country as well as a foundation for feature generations yet unborn.
“This momentous occasion showcase our unique culture, traditions, values and history. We invite the world to experience the beauty and vibrancy of Yandang culture, promoting eco – tourism and national cohesion.
“We the Yandang are great people of culture, hospitality with excellent etiquette and industry.
According to him, the maiden Sungki Yandang Carnival with the Theme: “Cultural heritage, a panacea for national cohesion”, the choice of the theme is deliberate looking at the time.
“It is pertinent to note, carnivals are significant in their roles to boosting happiness, fostering social integration and driving tourism and economic activities. The cultural richness of carnivals are a major draw for tourists to contribute to the development of eco – tourism as a major driver of the economy globally and locally. As we look forward to feature editions, we anticipate even more spectacular displays of our culture prowess and envision – he said.
“Cultural heritage encompasses the tangible and intangible legacy passed down from previous generations, representing a society’s values, believe, traditions and life styles.
“Essentially, it’s about fostering a unified society with a share sense of purpose and identity – he added.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion Hon. Audu Mohamed Lauya, calls for peaceful coexistence and support to Governor Agbu Kefas’ Administration.
The Chairman of the occasion who is the Member Representing Ardo-kola, Karim-Lamido and Lau Federal constituency,
appreciated the Yandang Community for entrusting him and giving him massive votes that contributed to his landslide victory during the last election.
He called on the Yandang youth to participate in the ongoing recruitment exercise of the Nigerian Army to secure gainful employment and contribute their quota in the defense of the country.
The Law Maker applauded and described Yandang Tribe as one of the peace loving tribes in Taraba State.
He admonished them to keep supporting the moving forward government of Dr. Agbu Kefas by promoting peace and harmonious coexistence in the State.
On his part, the Senator representing Taraba North, Senator Isa Lau said that culture promote peaceful coexistence and keep people together.
He promised to connect the Abbare – Mayo-Lope to the National Grid.
He said the electricity would impact tremendously on the Socio- economic fortunes of the community, adding that
the provision of power to the community would serve as a source of employment generation to the Yandang teaming youth population.
The Senator while commending the Yandang people for their support to him during the 2023 Senatorial election, said their votes was for development, peace and stability.
He promised to pay the community back for their overwhelming support, urging the Yandang people to continue leaving in peace with themselves and their neighbours.
Speaking, the Commissioner, Ministry of Heritage and Eco – Tourism, Hon. Joseph Titus Nagombe disclose that the Taraba State Government under the Leadership of Governor Agbu Kefas is set to enlist the Sungki Yandang Carnival into the Taraba State Festivals’ Calendar.
He maintained that, culture is a beautiful and significant pillar that helps in promoting peace, unity and cohesion among a people and nation hence, the need to uplift it in the best way possible.
He revealed that, hitherto, Taraba State only had about two/three recognized Carnivals but as at last year, three (3) more Carnivals including that of the Jukun, Jen and Mambila respectively, were enlisted into the State’s Calendar, adding that, the Sungki Yandang Carnival would equally be enlisted this year.
He however, applauded the Yandang Nation for upholding peace and unity over the years and charged them to remain the good and hospitable people they have been even as he urged them to continue to support the Gov. Kefas led administration to attract more development to their community for the common good of all the Yandang people.
The Commissioner praised the organizers and the Sanwi Chiefdom for maintaining the Sungki Yandang Carnival as a means of enhancing peace and promoting national unity.
He further assured them that under the leadership of Dr Agbu Kefas, the Sungki Yandang Cultural Festival will be submitted for recognition in the National calendar of Festivals, 2025
He outlined the importance of cultural heritage in bridging ethnic and communal gaps and stated that events like the carnival are very important in strengthening social ties.
The commissioner also assured ongoing support from the Taraba State Ministry of Heritage and Ecotourism to enhance the visibility and development of indigenous festivals.
In his remarks, the Chairman, Lau local government council, Hon. Nigeria Jatau, advice the youths not to forget their cultural heritage, amongst which are, dancing, dressing and others.
He called on people of the local government area to support the present administration of Governor Agbu Kefas to reap the dividends of democracy.
He also called on youths to avoid all forms of social vises and be good ambassadors of the local government area.
Community leaders at the event lauded support of the state government and called for increased investment in cultural infrastructure and education to strengthen unity amongst diverse ethnic groups in the state.
The carnival showcased traditional dances, music, beautiful Yandang attire, and speeches from cultural and political stakeholders.
The festival held amid colourful display of music, dance and cultural exhibitions, drew dignitaries and residents from across the state.
Among the high profile personalities who attended the event were, Mai Kaltungo, Gombe State among others.
