By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
The Lokoja Forum of Patriots (LFP) on Saturday hosted the 6th edition of its Annual Boats Regatta at the Kabawa Waterfront in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, attracting dignitaries, traditional rulers, title holders, cultural groups, and residents from across Kogi State and beyond.
The colorful event, which has become one of Lokoja’s most anticipated cultural festivals, featured traditional boat parades, canoe races, swimming contests, and water performances, celebrating the rich heritage and unity of the riverine communities along the banks of the Niger and Benue Rivers.
The scenic Kabawa Waterfront came alive with music, cheers, and colorful displays, as participants proudly showcased their boats and traditional outfits in a vibrant celebration of Lokoja’s cultural pride.
In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the ceremony, Barrister Naseer Ahmed, the Dan Darma of Lokoja, commended the Lokoja Forum of Patriots for sustaining the regatta tradition, describing it as “a symbol of peace, progress, and communal pride.”
He urged the people of Lokoja to preserve their cultural heritage and called on government and private investors to support tourism and cultural initiatives in the state.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Lokoja Forum of Patriots, Alhaji Idris Baba’Ango, said the 6th edition was organized to promote unity, peace, and socio-economic development through culture and tourism.
According to him, the regatta has become a rallying point for the people of Lokoja and a platform to project the city’s unique cultural and historical significance.
Alhaji Baba’Ango appreciated all dignitaries, participants, and guests for their presence and support, emphasizing that the Forum remains committed to promoting peace, youth empowerment, and cultural preservation.
He thanked the Maigari of Lokoja and other traditional rulers for their royal blessings, describing their participation as a reflection of Lokoja’s deep-rooted respect for tradition.
“Lokoja’s strength lies in its diversity, and this regatta is a celebration of that enduring unity,” Baba’Ango stated.
Several prizes and awards were presented during the regatta.
The Adankolo Group clinched the First Prize in the Boat Decoration Contest for their creativity and craftsmanship.
Ward B Team came first in the Swimming Competition, while Eggan Ward emerged winner in the Female Boat Paddling Category, drawing loud applause from the cheering crowd.
The Kabawa Youth Boat Club also won the Speedboat Race, while the Lokoja Waterfront Cultural Troupe received the Best Cultural Performance Award for their colorful and energetic display.
Dignitaries in attendance included His Royal Highness, Alhaji Muhammed Sanni, the Angankyu of Kakanda, who served as the Royal Father of the Day and Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, Managing Director of N-HYPPADEC.
Others included the representative of the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Baba Inusa, who conveyed the governor’s goodwill message and commended the Forum for its cultural contributions.
Also present were traditional rulers and title holders from across Lokoja and neighboring communities, members of the Lokoja Emirate Council, Barrister Naseer Ahmed, Chairman of the ceremony; youth and women leaders, and representatives of various cultural associations.
In his closing remarks, Senator Tunde Ogbeha, Patron of the Forum, praised the organizers for their dedication and consistency, describing the regatta as “a unifying cultural event that promotes peace, tourism, and inter-community relations in Lokoja and Kogi State at large.”
Guests described the regatta as peaceful, colorful, and entertaining.
The Coordinator of the Boats Regatta, Alhaji Nda Umar, assured that next year’s edition would be even more vibrant, with wider participation and new attractions to further boost tourism and cultural preservation in the Confluence City.
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