The Nigerian Cultural development consultants have said that Lokoja, the Kogi state capital, played prominent historical and political roles in the entity called Nigeria and should, therefore, be actively involved in the forthcoming centenary celebration.
The cultural development consultants, in press statement signed by the chairman, Dr Hinmikalu Emiola Paul and the secretary, Dr Iroko Jacob Olorunshola and made available to newsmen, said Lokoja, being the first capital of Nigeria, must not be driven to the backwater of history.
The statement said the 100 years anniversary of the nation slated for next year was worthy of celebration as it was a period of national rebirth through self evaluation of our past and the quest for a better future.
It added that the Federal Government, in conjunction with the state government, should design a programme during the centenary celebration to showcase the rich cultural heritage and historical relics and monuments that abound in the state.
It stressed that “Nigeria has recorded various successes in the field of education, culture, transport, governance, among others. It has contributed immensely to international peace and it is a force to be reckoned with among comity of nations.
Arguing that in the course of celebrating the 100 years of nationhood, he said there were some towns and places that could not be ignored and one of such towns was Lokoja.
The statement explained that “ Lokoja is noted for its natural gift of Niger-Benue confluence and it played prominent roles in the pre-colonial, colonial and post colonial era and administration of Nigeria.
“Politically, the old Kabba province played host to lord Lugard administration in the northern protectorate and economically it still plays host to giant industrial establishments that has no equal in Nigeria and in Africa.
“The various historical relics, heritage sites,monuments and diverse environmental resources all combined to kogi state a unique one among others.
“The vision and mission of this group therefore is to project and highlight the dynamic roles played by Lokoja and the old Kabba province to the past, present and its potentials for development.”
It however solicited for partnership with the Kogi state government to make the centenary celebration more colourful in the state.
