By Emmanuel Kwada
The Koro people of Kaduna State turned out in large numbers on Saturday to celebrate their inaugural Cultural Day Festival, a historic event described as “great and colourful” by attendees.
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Held at Government Secondary School, Kubacha, in Kagarko Local Government Area, the festival marked the first of its kind since the establishment of the Koro Chiefdom, drawing dignitaries from within and outside Kaduna State.
The event, organized by the Koro Community Development Association (KCDA), was a vibrant showcase of traditional dances, music, and cultural displays, with drums echoing through the venue as the community celebrated its rich heritage.
It speaks to our long-held desire to deliberately revive our rich cultural and traditional values
The festival’s theme, Revitalizing Koro Cultural Heritage, Bridging Generations, and Uniting Communities, captured the Koro people’s aspirations to preserve their traditions and foster unity.
In his keynote address, KCDA President Prof. John Yakubu Magaji emphasized the significance of the theme, stating, “It speaks to our long-held desire to deliberately revive our rich cultural and traditional values, build sustainable connections across generations, and foster unity in the pursuit of progress, development, and peaceful coexistence with our neighbours.”
He acknowledged the challenges faced in organizing the maiden event but assured attendees that future festivals would be even more impactful.
Prof. Magaji also reflected on the history of the KCDA, tracing its origins to individual village units that united in Kaduna town to form the association’s Kaduna Branch.
“The idea of coming together as a collective started in Kaduna, where Koro indigenes began meeting as a group,” he said. The association was formally registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, a milestone credited to the leadership of its first president, Mr. Emmanuel Ejah (Polude). Subsequent leaders, including L.L. Lamba, oversaw the creation of the Koro Chiefdom, a pivotal achievement.
The idea of coming together as a collective started in Kaduna, where Koro indigenes began meeting as a group
After a period of decline following the passing of Dr. Kurah, the association was revived in 2022 under Prof. Magaji’s leadership.
“Today is a day of pride for every son and daughter of the Koro nation,” Magaji declared. “This annual cultural day festival has come to stay, and we pledge to build upon the strong foundation that has now been laid.”
The festival also served as a platform to address community challenges. Prof. Magaji called on authorities to secure the release of over 50 Koro community members kidnapped by bandits and highlighted the lack of infrastructure, such as tarred roads, in the area.
He also appealed to Governor Uba Sani to restore the district heads and correct the chiefdom’s name from “KubDSPacha Chiefdom” to “Koro Chiefdom.”
In a show of gratitude, Prof. Magaji commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani for their development efforts across Nigeria and Kaduna State, praying for their good health and success. He also praised Kagarko Local Government Council Chairman, Hon. Muhuyideen, for wholeheartedly supporting the event.
This annual cultural day festival has come to stay, and we pledge to build upon the strong foundation that has now been laid
Additionally, he expressed appreciation to the KCDA Executive Cabinet, the 2025 Cultural Day Board, sub-committees, and all contributors for their dedication and creativity in ensuring the festival’s success.
The event was attended by representatives from Southern Kaduna’s Community Development Associations, including members of the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), as well as Koro communities from Abuja, Nasarawa, and Niger States. Neighbouring Gbagyi, Jarawa, and other communities also joined, adding to the spirit of unity.
As the Koro people danced and celebrated, the maiden Cultural Day Festival not only revitalized their cultural heritage but also laid a foundation for future gatherings to bridge generations and unite communities. With plans to make the event an annual tradition, the Koro nation has taken a bold step toward preserving its identity and fostering progress.
