By Aminu Isah
Lokoja Day is a significant event in Nigeria, commemorating the founding of Lokoja, a city in Kogi State, on September 14, 1841.
Lokoja was founded by William Baikie, a British explorer and colonial administrator, on September 14, 1841, but under the guidance and sponsorship of the British Methodist minister and abolitionist, Thomas Fowell Buxton, and the British government( Suleiman, 1992)
However, the establishment of Lokoja is often attributed to the British colonial administration, particularly:
- William Baikie (who led the expedition)
- Rev. Samuel Crowther (a Nigerian clergyman who accompanied Baikie)
- Thomas Fowell Buxton (who advocated for the establishment of a British presence in the region)
The British government aimed to:
- Suppress the transatlantic slave trade
- Establish trade and commerce in the region
- Spread Christianity
- Expand British influence in West Africa
Lokoja became a strategic location for the British, serving as:
- The capital of the British Niger Territories
- A major trading post
- A center for Christian missionary work
Later, Lokoja became the first administrative capital of Nigeria during the British colonial era.
Today’s event is the first to be commemorated under the headship of HRH Alh. Ibrahim Gambo Gambo Kabir IV , the Maigari of Lokoja.
The occasion is significant for many reasons:
-it is a reminder of the historical importance of Lokoja as the first administrative capital of Nigeria .
-showcasing the cultural diversity of the people.
-aim at promoting the unity and integration of its people.
In the spirit of these, illustrious Sons and daughters of Lokoja which includes the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Umar Aliyu Yusuf , Alh.Bala Haruna and Alh. Danladi Ibrahim Suleiman among others were to be crowned with traditional title . This gesture of honouring prominent Sons and Daughters across religious and ethnic divides has helped greatly in the integration of its people ( Lawal & Aminu, 2020).
As we set out to celebrate this historical event, we pray that the unity that bind the diverse people of Lokoja will keep it blossoming.
We wish to congratulate HRH Alh.Ibrahim Gambo Kabir Maikarfi IV and the good people of Lokoja.
Isa Aminu, PhD, ACA, ACIPM
Chairman,Board of Trustees
Association of Lokoja Academics and Professionals,writes from Lokoja, Kogi state.
