By Abubakar Yunusa Ojima-ojo,Abuja
Leaders of the Igala and Bassa communities have called for stronger unity and increased investment in local security as part of efforts to drive development across their homeland.
The appeal was made during the Igala-Bassa Renaissance Project fundraising dinner held in Abuja over the weekend, where organisers set a target of N500m to support community initiatives.
Speaking at the event, the President of the Ukomu Igala Organisation, Maj-Gen. James Ataguba (retd.), urged stakeholders to commit resources towards safeguarding communities and strengthening civic participation.
“Invest in the security of our communities. Invest in the unity of our people. Invest in the voice that will tell our story,” he said.
According to him, contributions made at the event should be seen as long-term commitments to the future prosperity of Igala and Bassa land.
“What you give today is not a donation. It is a seed — a seed that will grow into a stronger, more united and more prosperous land,” Ataguba added.
Also speaking, the lawmaker representing Idah Federal Constituency, Hon. David Idris Zacharias, stressed the need for residents to participate actively in governance processes, noting that development would be difficult without community support.
“You don’t expect government to bring development while you sit down alone. Civic participation remains key to determining leadership,” he said.
In his welcome remarks, former Kogi State Governor Idris Ichalla Wada highlighted concerns over low civic engagement in parts of Kogi East, urging leaders and citizens to mobilise people at the grassroots.
“It is important that we rally around and encourage our people to take responsibility for the future of the region,” he noted.
Meanwhile, traditional ruler Achadu Attah described the gathering as primarily cultural, emphasising the need to promote the welfare and unity of Igala sons and daughters.
“The Igala organisation is a cultural body. I am here to support them and offer prayers for the progress of the kingdom,” he said.
The event drew community leaders, political stakeholders and supporters who pledged to back initiatives aimed at enhancing security, unity and economic growth in the area.