Garaku, the administrative headquarters of Kokona Local Government Area, came alive with colour, rhythm, and deep cultural symbolism as it hosted the 2025 edition of the Omele Cultural Festival—a historic annual event that celebrates the rich heritage of the Gwandara people of Nasarawa State.
Held at the majestic Abaga Palace, the festival brought together traditional leaders, political dignitaries, government functionaries, youth groups, cultural enthusiasts, and community members from within and beyond the state. This year’s celebration was chaired by the Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, who was ably represented by the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Isaac Danladi.
In his address, Barr. Danladi conveyed the Deputy Governor’s message of peace, unity, and cultural preservation, urging all ethnic groups in Nasarawa to embrace oneness as a vehicle for sustainable development. He commended the Gwandara people for maintaining their cultural values and traditions, describing their efforts as a model for other communities.
"Culture is not just tradition—it is identity, history, and a source of unity. I commend the Abaga of Toni and the Gwandara people for nurturing this rich heritage,” Dr. Akabe stated through his representative.
The event also attracted prominent figures including the Commissioner for Education, Dr. John D.W. Mamman; Hon. Oga Ogazi, a member of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly; and Hon. Agbawu Mek Agbawu, Executive Chairman of Kokona Local Government Council all of whom expressed pride in the cultural strength and unity displayed by the people.
The festival featured spectacular masquerade performances, traditional dances, drumming, and artistic displays that echoed the resilience and pride of the Gwandara nation.
Youth and women groups participated in various cultural contests, reinforcing the intergenerational transmission of values and identity.
In his royal remarks, His Royal Highness, the Abaga of Toni, lauded the efforts of the organizing committee and expressed gratitude to the state government for recognizing and supporting the cultural aspirations of his people.
He called for more investment in cultural tourism as a tool for economic development and peaceful coexistence.
The 2025 Omele Cultural Festival served not only as a celebration of Gwandara heritage but also as a unifying event that reinforced the bonds among diverse ethnic groups in Nasarawa State.
As the festival closed with prayers, songs, and a renewed commitment to unity, one message rang clear: a people rooted in their culture will always find strength in their identity.
Speaking to journalists shortly after the occasion, the Nasarawa State Commissioner for Education, Dr. John D.W. Mamman, who is also a proud son of the soil, expressed heartfelt joy and pride in the successful hosting of the 2025 Omele Cultural Festival.
Dr. Mamman described the festival as a symbol of unity, identity, and community strength, adding that its continuity over the years reflects the Gwandara people's unwavering commitment to preserving their cultural heritage.
“As a son of this land, I feel deeply honoured and fulfilled to witness the growing recognition of our culture. The Omele Festival is not just a celebration; it’s a reaffirmation of who we are, our values, and our vision for future generations,” Dr. Mamman stated.
He commended the traditional leadership of the Abaga of Toni, the festival organizers, and the entire Kokona community for sustaining such a significant cultural event. He also used the opportunity to call on parents and community leaders to actively pass on traditional knowledge to the younger generation, ensuring that their heritage does not fade with time.
Dr. Mamman reaffirmed the state government’s commitment under Governor Abdullahi Sule’s administration to continue supporting cultural initiatives that promote unity, peace, and education, stating that culture and education must go hand-in-hand in shaping a progressive society.
