Gbagyi Elders Forum Calls for Preservation of Culture Amid Urbanization Threats
By Our Correspondent
The Gbagyi Elders Forum (GEF) has raised urgent concerns about the threats posed to Gbagyi culture by urbanization, alongside ongoing economic and political marginalization.
The forum emphasizes the need for immediate action to reverse these adverse trends.
This position was articulated in a communique released following the official launch of the Gbagyi Elders Forum under the theme “Uniting for a Greater Future,” presented by Elder Peterson Kaura, chairman of the board of trustees, during an event in Minna.
Elder Kaura highlighted that the Gbagyi people’s substantial contributions to Nigeria’s development have historically gone unrecognized, largely due to a leadership vacuum that has contributed to persistent economic challenges, high poverty rates, and significant infrastructure deficits.
Key resolutions from the meeting, which included a lecture by Enoch Oyedele titled “Prospectives on Gbagyi Heritage and Economy: Past Achievements, Present Challenges, and Future Prospects,” focused on strengthening Gbagyi unity and identity.
The forum proposed the establishment of a Gbagyi National Council to effectively address pressing issues affecting the community.
To further their goals, the forum plans to preserve Gbagyi culture and language through an Annual Gbagyi Cultural Festival, as well as enhance economic empowerment via the Gbagyi Land Rights Committee.
Educational initiatives will focus on leadership development, promoting a Gbagyi scholars network, and fostering political advocacy for greater inclusion at all levels.
The GEF also called attention to the alarming impact of banditry on Gbagyi communities in Kaduna, Niger, Kogi, and the Federal Capital Territory, urging federal and state governments to take decisive action to address these security challenges.
The inaugural Annual Gbagyi Cultural Festival is slated to take place from February 5 to 8, 2026, at a venue yet to be determined.
