Association hosts inaugural cultural heritage day in Bauchi
By Ahmed Ahmed
The Bauchi State Community Leaders Association (CLA) marked a historic milestone over the weekend as it celebrated its first-ever Cultural Heritage Day, with a resounding call for national unity, peace, and mutual respect among all Nigerians, regardless of ethno-religious, socio-political, or cultural differences.
Speaking at the event held at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium (ATBS) Annex in Bauchi, the Association’s President-General, Chief Matthew Osochukwu, emphasized the need for continued love, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
He hailed Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed for fostering unity and ensuring inclusive governance across Bauchi State.
According to Chief Osochukwu, “The communities under CLA in Bauchi State are enjoying cordial relations with their host communities, especially under the inclusive leadership of Governor Bala Mohammed.”
He added that the CLA was established to promote unity, progress, and harmonious interaction between indigenous communities and the state’s diverse population.
He described the Cultural Heritage Day as the first of its kind across Nigeria’s 36 states and the FCT, noting that it aims to further consolidate the strong bonds of friendship among communities while showcasing their rich cultural diversity.
Osochukwu commended Governor Mohammed for his administration’s strides in infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment despite financial constraints.
“His visionary leadership is a source of inspiration, and it is in recognition of his efforts that we honour him today as the Grand Patron of CLA, Bauchi State,” he said.
The event also featured a keynote address by Prince Munkaila Gbola Adeyemi, who praised CLA for exemplifying the true Nigerian spirit and promoting national cohesion. In his paper titled “Our Individual Uniqueness as Cultural Ambassadors of Our Generation,
He applauded CLA members for embracing Bauchi as home, overcoming ethnic sentiments, and upholding values of integrity, patriotism, and unity.
Prince Adeyemi expressed concern over the negative influence of social media on youth behavior, warning that the erosion of cultural values could jeopardize the future.
He commended CLA’s cultural initiative as timely and in alignment with UNESCO and UN calls for cultural preservation and youth reorientation.
He concluded by urging members to remain united and supportive of one another while reaffirming their loyalty to the Bala Mohammed-led administration, which he said has made peace and coexistence a cornerstone of its governance.
