Thousands gathered at the Aku Uka’s Palace in Wukari on Friday for the 2026 Jukun Youth Day, a grand celebration of heritage under the theme: “Rooted in Culture, United in Diversity: Jukun Youth for Peace and Development.” The event showcased the rich traditions of the Kwararafa Kingdom through colourful cultural displays, traditional rites, and impassioned calls for unity, peace, and youth-led development.
Speakers throughout the day underscored the enduring values of Jukun culture – respect for tradition, communal harmony, leadership responsibility, and identity preservation. They described culture as a vital tool for social cohesion and conflict resolution, urging young people to harness their heritage as a pathway to sustainable development and peaceful coexistence.
Lalong, Kefas Throw Weight Behind Youth Initiatives
Senator Simon Bako Lalong, who chaired the occasion, said he was deeply honoured to preside, noting ancestral ties between his people and the Jukun nation. He described culture as a guide to leadership and urged youths to reject violence, resist manipulation, and champion dialogue. “Peace remains the bedrock of development,” he said, calling on royal stakeholders to continue promoting cross-community harmony.
Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas, in a goodwill message, commended the Jukun people for preserving their cultural identity and fostering inter-ethnic unity. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment, peacebuilding, and cultural promotion, adding that sustainable development in Taraba State can only thrive amid peace. He urged young people to remain law-abiding and actively contribute to community stability.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Jukun Youth Council, Mr Awudu Danjuma, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, appreciating dignitaries, traditional rulers, and participants. He reaffirmed Jukun youths’ dedication to peace, unity, and development, pledging continued collaboration with stakeholders to build a stronger, more prosperous Kwararafa Kingdom.
Traditional Titles Conferred on Distinguished Indigenes
A major highlight was the conferment of prestigious traditional titles, approved by His Majesty, the Aku Uka of Wukari, Manu Ali Ada Matakitwen, on distinguished sons and daughters of the kingdom. The honours recognised outstanding contributions to unity and development.
The awardees included:
· Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Sani Usman (Rtd.) – Atsoshi
· Air Vice Marshal Monday Riku Morgan (Rtd.) – Akii
· AIG Aboki Danjuma (Rtd.) – Kuntswen (Security Adviser to the Aku Uka)
· Senator Simon Bako Lalong – Kwantsu
· Barr. Danjuma A. Adamu – Nene (Mouthpiece of the Jukun people)
· Rt. Hon. Mark B. Useni, Ph.D. – Awe
· Dr Adi Pajo – Hocho
· Chief Dr Iganya Joy Agene-Idoko – Watsaza
· Mrs Rautha Sale Awudu – Ayo Wando
The Wukari Traditional Council described the investitures as a fitting tribute to those who have demonstrated exceptional service and dedication to the advancement of Jukun land. The event drew traditional rulers, political leaders, and other stakeholders from across the kingdom and beyond, reflecting the growing significance of the celebration in promoting unity and cultural pride.
