By Sani Yarima
The Taraba State chapter of the Fulbe Development and Cultural Organization (FUDECO) joined other chapters across the nation to mark the International Day of Pulaku in Jalingo. The event, which took place at the Muslim Council’s conference hall and Afolahan Square, highlighted the cultural heritage of the Fulani and aimed to promote the United Nations’ Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
In his address, Dr. Abubakar Girei, a senior lecturer at the University of Maiduguri, stressed the importance of education and agriculture to the Fulani people. He urged the community to embrace both religious and Western education while adapting traditional practices to modern techniques. “The Fulani have been involved in education, agriculture, and livestock keeping for centuries. These activities can be improved to tally with modern advancements,” Dr. Girei said.
Read Also: 2024 WSD: Nigerian Optometric Association Organizes Workshop For School Children In Taraba State
Read Also: Nigeria @64: Aisha Barde Salutes Forefathers, Urges Nigerians To Raise The Nation’s Flag In Pride
The State Chairperson of FUDECO, Hajiya Aisha Bashir Ardo, emphasized the significance of promoting Fulbe cultural heritage and unity among diverse Fulani clans. She also called for peaceful coexistence with neighboring communities. “I call on our peace-loving Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, for his commitment to fairness, inclusion, and improving the security situation in the state. Today, we are able to celebrate Pulaku Day in peace,” Ardo noted.
Engr. Ahmed Yusuf, Commissioner of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need to challenge negative perceptions of the Fulani. “It is unacceptable to segregate the Fulani from their neighbors, especially in the North West. The Fulani can compete globally in all fields of life,” Yusuf remarked.
The event was supported by the AYNI Fund of FEMI as part of FUDECO’s pastoralist women’s economic empowerment project.
The inaugural edition of the National Day of Pulaku aimed to promote the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples by the United Nations in 2007.
The event also featured a paper presentation by Barrister Bashir Bape, a former member of the Taraba State House of Assembly, and cultural performances that showcased the rich heritage of the Fulani. Several dignitaries, including the Galadiman Muri, Alhaji Tukur Abba Tukur, and the General Manager of NTA Jalingo, Hajiya Nihad Isa Umar, were in attendance.