By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
The ancient city of Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, is set to witness a colourful display of culture and tradition this weekend as the Lokoja Forum of Patriots (LFP) hosts the 6th edition of its Annual Boat Regatta on Saturday.
The event, which will hold at the Kabawa waterfront, is expected to attract a large turnout of residents, tourists, and dignitaries from across the state and beyond.
According to the Coordinator of the Regatta, Alhaji Nnda Umar, all arrangements have been concluded to ensure a hitch-free and memorable celebration.
He assured participants of adequate security and smooth coordination of activities during the event.
The Maigari of Lokoja, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Ibrahim Gambo Kabir Maikarfi, will serve as the Royal Father of the Day, while Barrister Nasir Ahmed, the Dandarma of Lokoja, will serve as the Chairman of the Occasion.
The Patron of the Lokoja Forum of Patriots, Senator Tunde Ogbeha, is also expected to play a prominent role at the ceremony.
The Chairman of the Lokoja Forum of Patriots, Alhaji Idris Baba’Ango, will lead members of the forum in hosting the cultural festival, which aims to promote unity, peace, and tourism in the confluence city.
Among the dignitaries expected at the occasion are Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, Senator Sunday Karimi, Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Umar Yusuf Aliyu and top traditional rulers including the Roggan of Eggan, Olu of Oworo, and Angankyu of Kakanda.
Also expected in attendance are Hon. Sulaiman Danladi Aguye, Member representing Lokoja/Kogi Federal Constituency, and the Lokoja Local Government Chairman, Comrade Abdullahi Adamu. Others include prominent sons of Lokoja such as Alhaji Sulaiman Baba Ali, the Gabi Sayadi of Lokoja, and several others from various walks of life.
Speaking ahead of the event, the Chairman of the Lokoja Forum of Patriots, Alhaji Idris Baba’Ango, said the regatta is more than just a celebration of culture — it is a symbol of unity, progress, and communal pride for the people of Lokoja.
According to him, the annual boat regatta has continued to serve as a unifying platform for indigenes and residents to showcase their cultural heritage, strengthen social bonds, and promote the tourism potentials of Kogi State.
“This event reflects who we are as a people of the confluence — peaceful, hospitable, and proud of our cultural identity,” Baba’Ango stated.
“The Lokoja Forum of Patriots remains committed to initiatives that promote peace, youth empowerment, and cultural revival.”
He further appreciated the support of traditional institutions, government officials, and community leaders who have consistently partnered with the forum to sustain the annual event, describing their cooperation as the driving force behind its success.
“We thank our patron, Senator Tunde Ogbeha, the Maigari of Lokoja, and all well-meaning citizens for their unwavering support. This year’s regatta promises to be colourful, peaceful, and better organized than ever before,” he added.
In his remarks, Hon. Sulaiman Danladi Aguye commended the Lokoja Forum of Patriots for sustaining what he described as “a rich cultural heritage that unites the people of Lokoja and showcases the beauty of the Niger-Benue confluence to the world.”
“The regatta is not just about entertainment — it is a celebration of identity and history. I am proud of the Lokoja Forum of Patriots for keeping this tradition alive and for promoting peace and togetherness among our people,” he said.
Similarly, the Lokoja Local Government Chairman, Comrade Abdullahi Adamu, expressed the council’s full support for the event and assured participants of maximum security and logistical assistance throughout the celebration.
“The Lokoja Local Government is proud to associate with this great cultural event. We have put all necessary measures in place to ensure safety and orderliness. The regatta remains a symbol of our unity and a reminder of Lokoja’s rich cultural heritage,” he said.
The Lokoja Boat Regatta has, over the years, become a major platform for showcasing the rich traditions, aquatic skills, and communal spirit of the people of Lokoja and the surrounding riverine communities, attracting cultural enthusiasts and tourists from across Nigeria and beyond.
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