From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
The 2025 Khituk Gwong Cultural Festival celebrated the rich heritage of the Gwong people on Saturday at the Gwong Development Area Complex, Kafancha, in Kafanchan Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The theme of the 2025 festival is “Gwong Heritage: Embracing Our Roots, Inspiring Our Future.” Organised by the Gwong Traditional Council and the Gwong Development Association (GDA), the festival aimed to promote unity and preserve Gwong culture for future generations.
Col. Paul Zakka Wyoms (retd), the Kpop Gwong, highlighted the festival’s importance in recognising the achievements of the Gwong people over the past year. He urged the community to embrace unity and mutual respect, stating, “It is our custom to dedicate our cultural day to celebrate achievements in the preceding year.”
One of the significant moments of the festival was the honouring of retired Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai with the title of Ndok Gwong Chiefdom (Friend of Gwong Chiefdom).
Col. Wyoms praised Buratai for his transformative leadership as Chief of Army Staff and his contributions to combating Boko Haram. He remarked on Buratai’s unwavering commitment to national security and the welfare of military personnel, emphasising his dedication to the Gwong Chiefdom.
Representing Gen. Buratai at the festival was Rear Admiral Abdul Biu Adamu (rtd) OFR. He, on behalf of Gen. Buratai, expressed gratitude for the honour and reaffirmed his commitment to preserving and supporting the Gwong people.
The event also attracted numerous distinguished guests, including General Martin Luther Agwai and representatives of key political figures.
The Khituk Gwong Cultural Festival not only celebrated the achievements of leaders like Gen. Buratai but also reinforced the Chiefdom’s spirit and traditions.
As the event concluded, attendees departed with a renewed pride in their heritage and a commitment to fostering unity and progress within the Gwong Chiefdom.
The successful festival stands as a testament to the resilience and unity of the Gwong people, inspiring future generations to embrace their cultural legacy.