Vice Admiral Jibrin Usman Urges Igala Kingdom to Ascend to National Leadership »

Vice Admiral Jibrin Usman, CFR (Rtd.), Former Chief of Naval Staff, Delivered a Keynote Address at the Inauguration Ceremony of the New National Executives of the Igala Cultural and Development Association (ICDA) at Idah, the Headquarters of the Igala Kingdom, Urging the Igala People to Rise and Claim Its Rightful Place in Nigeria’s National Leadership.

In his address, Vice Admiral Usman lamented the kingdom’s marginalisation, citing instances of exclusion from key national appointments and developmental projects. He emphasised that the Igala people have been silent for too long, and their silence has been mistaken for weakness. However, he noted that the kingdom is strong, resilient, and determined to take its rightful place in the nation’s leadership. Vice Admiral Usman charged the new ICDA executives to unite the Igala people and foster cooperation among various communities, emphasising that unity is the kingdom’s strength. He urged them to promote the kingdom’s rich cultural heritage and intellectual capital and to showcase them to the world. He also emphasised the need for strategic partnerships with other ethnic groups and stakeholders to drive national transformation.

The former Chief of Naval Staff noted that leadership is not just about seeking power but about serving the people and contributing to national growth and prosperity. He urged the executives to be guided by integrity, transparency, and accountability and to always put the interests of the kingdom first.

Admiral Usman also made several key suggestions to drive the kingdom’s development, including the establishment of an Igala Elders Council to provide guidance and wisdom and the establishment of an Igala Youths Council to harness the energy and creativity of young people, initiation of discussions with the Kogi State Government to link the kingdom to the Geregu Power Plant, leadership in the creation of Okura State to ensure a voice in national politics, establishment of the Kogi East Development Commission to drive economic growth, establishment of an Army Brigade in Anyigba for security and protection Rehabilitation of roads within Igala land to connect communities and facilitate economic growth The ceremony was attended by prominent Igala sons and daughters, including traditional rulers, politicians, and business leaders.

The new ICDA executives pledged to work towards repositioning the Igala Kingdom for national leadership, leveraging its rich cultural heritage and intellectual capital to drive national transformation. In his closing remarks, Vice Admiral Usman urged the Igala people to rise and claim their rightful place in Nigeria’s national leadership, saying, “The time for us to shine is now!” He expressed confidence in the ability of the new ICDA executives to lead the kingdom to greatness.

The inauguration ceremony marked a new dawn for the Igala Kingdom, as its people look forward to a brighter future under the leadership of the new ICDA executives. With Vice Admiral Usman’s call to action, the kingdom is poised to take its rightful place in Nigeria’s national leadership.

To recap his all-encompassing speech, the elder statesman made the following suggestions to the revered Igala national cultural body:

Establishment of an Igala Elders Council

Vice Admiral Usman suggested the establishment of an Igala Elders Council to provide guidance and wisdom in the decision-making process of the kingdom. This council will comprise respected elders who have a deep understanding of the kingdom’s culture, history, and values. They will offer valuable insights and advice to the ICDA executives, ensuring that the kingdom’s development is rooted in its rich heritage.

Establishment of an Igala Youths Council

The Vice Admiral also suggested the establishment of an Igala Youths Council to harness the energy and creativity of young people. This council will provide a platform for young Igala people to contribute to the kingdom’s development, bringing fresh ideas and perspectives to the table. By empowering the youth, the kingdom can tap into their potential and ensure a bright future.

Initiation of discussions with the Kogi State Government to link the kingdom to the Geregu Power Plant

Vice Admiral Usman urged the ICDA executives to initiate discussions with the Kogi State Government to link the kingdom to the Geregu Power Plant. This will ensure that the kingdom benefits from the power plant’s economic and social impact, providing electricity and job opportunities for the people.

Leadership in the creation of Okura State

The Vice Admiral suggested that the Igala Kingdom take a leadership role in the creation of Okura State. This will ensure that the kingdom has a voice in national politics and can contribute to the development of the state. By having a state of their own, the Igala people can better manage their resources and develop their kingdom.

Establishment of the Kogi East Development Commission

Vice Admiral Usman suggested the establishment of the Kogi East Development Commission to drive economic growth and development in the region. This commission will oversee the development of infrastructure, industries, and social services, ensuring that the kingdom’s economy grows and prospers.

Establishment of an Army Brigade in Anyigba

The Vice Admiral also suggested the establishment of an Army Brigade in Anyigba to provide security and protection for the kingdom. This will ensure that the kingdom is safe from external threats and can focus on its development.

Rehabilitation of roads within Igala land

Finally, Vice Admiral Usman suggested the rehabilitation of roads within Igala land to connect communities and facilitate economic growth. This will improve transportation, commerce, and communication within the kingdom, driving economic development and prosperity.

Compiled by Christopher Sunday