By Ibrahim Kaukahi, Gusau
The former Chief of Staff to the immediate past Speaker House of Representatives and Chief of Staff to the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, hon. Sanusi Rikiji has represented the Federal Government at the Annual Rigata Cultural Festival organised by Yauri Emirate in Kebbi State.
The event hosted by the Emir of Yauri, Alhaji Dr Muhammad Zayyana was also attended by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kebbi State, Dr Nasiru Idris (Kauran Gwandu).
Rikiji, the former Speaker Zamfara State House of Assembly who represented President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu through his Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Abdulhakeem Femi Gbajabiamila who was assigned by Mr. President, described the event as timely and a catalyst for the national unity and development.
“I believe this event is inline with the federal government’s policies and programmes surrounding revival of cultural values, promoting understanding among communities as well as peace and stability
“I stand here today, to grace this occasion on behalf of the Special Guest of Honour, Mr President of thr Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu through his Chief of Staff Rt. Hon. Abdulhakeem Femi Gbajabiamila (Sadaukin Yauri).
“Rigata cultural activity presents another unique platform and opportunity to the country at large to fully embrace the fact that governance and culture are integral requirements for national development especially in line with the renewed hope agenda of the President Asiwaju’s administration”, Rikiji explained.
He stated that, it is gladdening to note that, the 200-year-old annual event becoming an internationally recognized activity is serving as a source of galvanizing tradition with culture and thereby reinforcing economic mainstay that transforms into an excelled major source of economic stability for the state and the entire nation.
“The Federal Government will ensure quality and speedy execution of some projects across the country, while it is determined to strengthen the education sector to meet the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians.
Rikiji, who is holding traditional title of (Dan Iyan Maradun Emirate in Zamfara) therefore, reassured that the Federal Government will continue to partner with the Yauri Emirate Council and Kebbi State Government to develop Rigata festival so that it will conform to the taste of time.
“I want to assure you that, the Federal College of Education (Technical) Yauri will soon take off and start academic activities, while Malando/Wara road rehabilitation will commence in earnest, Rikiji added.
The Kebbi State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Umar Abubakar Tafida, Commissioners, Special Advisers, Former Zamfara State Deputy Governor, Sen. Hassan Muhammad Nasiha Traditional rulers from within and outside the state also graced the occasion.