A Celebration of Asholio Heritage: The Mam Asholio Cultural Festival
The Asholio people, also known as Moro’a, from Kaduna State in Northwest Nigeria recently convened in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, to commemorate the inaugural Mam Asholio (Moro’a Day) cultural festival. This event served as a showcase of their rich cultural heritage, featuring traditional dances, music, drama, and the presentation of accolades to notable individuals for their positive impact on the Asholio community and beyond.
Among the distinguished individuals honoured were Mr. Thomas Yatai, Facility Manager at Baze University Teaching Hospital in Abuja, and Dr. Jerry Bonet, Human Resource Officer at the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission. In addition, Dr. Obadiah Nkom, the Director-General of Nigeria Mining Cadastre, Dr. Simon Nkom, and Victoria Akai, the DG of Abuja Chambers of Commerce and Industry, were also commended for their contributions to the Asholio community.
Mr. Kaboshio Dauda, the chairman of the Asholio branch, expressed the exceptional contributions of the recipients to youth empowerment, community development, capacity building, and peace and unity, which led to their well-deserved recognition. He emphasized their roles as exemplary ambassadors of the Asholio people and their support to the Association and Moro’a land.
The primary aim of the Mam Asholio cultural festival was to uphold and promote the Asholio cultural heritage and to foster unity among Asholio members for their collective contribution to nation-building and sustainable development. Since its establishment as a branch in Abuja in 1995, the association has expanded, now comprising 10 sub-branches across the Federal Capital Territory, playing a significant role in promoting peace, economic growth, and development within the FCT.
Members of the association have significantly contributed to peace, economic growth, and the development of the Federal Capital Territory through their private businesses and civil and public service roles in various government agencies across the six Area Councils of the FCT.
Mr. Yatai, the Chairman of the occasion, commended the association, highlighting the important role ethnic nationalities play in nation-building. He urged the Asholio people to stand together for the growth of their homeland and to continue supporting their leaders in their respective roles.
During the event, Dr. Jerry Bonet, the immediate past National Youth Leader of the Association, delivered a message encouraging Asholio youths to be exemplary representatives of their community and to actively contribute to the nation’s development. He emphasized the importance of the government providing essential social amenities and promoting inclusive governance to enable ethnic nationalities to make significant contributions to nation-building.
Victoria Akai, the DG of Abuja Chambers of Commerce, expressed her gratitude for the award, stating that it would serve as a motivation for her to continue her valuable work for humanity. Additionally, Mr. Donatus Mathew, the House of Representatives Member Representing Kaura Local Government Area, stressed the significance of peace and unity in achieving sustainable development and assured his support for the growth and development of the Kaura local government area.
The event featured dynamic cultural performances, including traditional dances and a drama that showcased unity in diversity. It provided a platform for the Asholio people to celebrate their heritage and reflect on their role in promoting peace and driving community development. The Mam Asholio cultural festival was truly an expression of unity and cultural pride.
