The Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, has emphasised the importance of recognising individuals who contributed to the development of the Nupe Kingdom, Niger State, and Nigeria.
Abubakar made this statement at the turbaning ceremony of Retired DCG Aliyu Galadima-Saidu, as the Galadima Gari Nupe at his Wadata Palace in Bida on Sunday.
He explained that traditional titles were reserved for individuals with proven integrity who demonstrated concern for the socio-economic well-being of the emirate.
Abubakar, who is also the chairman, Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, said the honour was intended to encourage others to lead exemplary lives, promoting the general good of the country.
The Etsu Nupe appealed to the people of Nupe land, both at home and in the diaspora, to contribute meaningfully to the development of the Nupe race, Niger State, and Nigeria.
He also urged wealthy individuals to return home and establish industries in Kin Nupe, facilitating socio-economic development in the kingdom.
Gov. Mohammed Umaru-Bago of Niger State, described the new Galadiman Gari Nupe as a man of excellence, outstanding during his service years in the Nigeria Customs Service.
The governor appreciated the Etsu Nupe for honouring an illustrious son of Bida.
He also expressed optimism that the Galadiman Nupe would provide the necessary support for the growth and development of the Nupe Kingdom and Niger State.
In their separate goodwill messages, DCP Abdullahi Babani and the Sarkin Kudun Gombe, Abdulrasheed Aliyu, described the title of Galadiman Nupe as a well-deserved honour for Galadima-Saidu citing his trustworthy nature.
In response, Galadima-Saidu, the newly appointed Galadima Gari Nupe, expressed gratitude to God and the Etsu Nupe for the honour.
He pledged to uphold the throne of the Kin Nupe Emirate, maintain a high level of integrity, and continue to promote the emirate’s positive image while driving socioeconomic development in the area.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that dignitaries in attendance included Niger State Deputy Gov. Yakubu Garba, and former Bauchi State Governor, Muhammad Abubakar.
Others are Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, and several federal constituency members.(NAN)
