By Shuaibu Usman
The Imo General Assembly in Nasarawa State have awarded the title of the “Odiukonamba 1” meaning a rare gem to Sen. Ahmed Aliyu Wadada who represents Nasarawa West at the National Assembly.
The award was presented to the federal lawmaker during the Omen’Imo Cultural Day on Sunday in Lafia.
Delivering his address, President of the Assembly, Hon. Njoku Emmanuel, said the cultural day was geared towards advancing and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Imo State.
He said that the conferment of the title on Sen. Wadada followed his unprecedented commitment to supporting the Imo Igbo extraction in ensuring social cohesion and economic development.
He appreciated the dignitaries for their cooperation and pledged continued sustenance of integration to grow the state and nation “even in the harsh realities of life”.
In his remark, the Chairman of the Cultural Day, Sen. Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, called for unity among diverse ethnic nationalities, highlighting the importance of security and peaceful disposition to ensure a safe socio-economic atmosphere.
Wadada represented by Barr. Mustapha Galadima, urged Nigerians to take pride in their culture and recognise its potential to drive economic development, social and political well-being.
He said diversity was a source of strength and unity rather than a source of disaffection.
Also speaking, Member representing Lafia Central at the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Solomon Akwashiki, reminded the gathering to see the value of cultural diversity with deep reflection on how it grew Nigeria during its founding days, believing that with cooperation the lost glories of the country can be restored.
The event sunk in traditional pomp and pageantry drew Imo Igbo natives from all nooks and corners of the state with a rich display of royalty and tradition as influential dignitaries from the academia, media and other critical areas of discipline also joined the historic celebration.