By Monday Ajegena
The Fulani people, a pastoralist ethnic group have celebrated the Maliya International Day of Fura-da-nono to promote their culture and traditions, particularly among the younger generation.
The event was organised by Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, Fulani Socio-Cultural Association, to encourage the youth to take pride in their heritage of preparing fura da nono.
The event took place on Saturday in the Masaka area of Karu Local Government Area (LGA) of Nasararawa State.
Speaking at the event, Alh. Abdullahi Bello-Bodejo, National President of the group, said that the celebration was aimed at showcasing their rich tradition, culture, as well as music and cuisine.
The National President, represented by Engr. Ibrahim Adamu, Northeast Zonal Vice Chairman of the association, said the platform would help to share their tradition with the world and promote better understanding.
The group had also inaugurated the Maliya International Cattle Market to promote the buying and selling of livestock of different types and sizes and a Mosque in the Masaka area of Karu LGA, Nasarawa State.
Fura-da-nono, is a staple food in Northern Nigeria, particularly among the Fulani community, and is a traditional dish made from millet flour, milk, and spices.
On the effort by the Federal Government to promote livestock farming, the group lauded President Bola Tinubu-led administration for the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development.
Bello-Bodejo said that the creation was a clear indication of the government’s recognition of the pivotal role livestock farming plays in the nation’s economy, culture, and social fabric.
He explained that it signifies a new era for millions of livestock farmers and pastoralists who have long awaited such a dedicated and focused body to address their unique challenges and opportunities.
He believes that the ministry would go a long way toward addressing the frequent conflicts between pastoralists and farmers.
Also speaking, Dr Awwal Aliyu, National President of the Northern Consensus Movement (NCM), commended the hosting of the cultural festival and the establishment of the International Cattle Market as well as the Mosque.
The President of NCM said that the market was a dream come true in fulfillment of the vision of Sir Amadu Bello, late Sultan of Sokoto, for an International Cattle Market.
Aliyu said that as a group, they are proud of the actualization of the dream of the late Sultan of Sokoto and would work toward making the market viable.
Also, Abdullahi Adamu, immediate-past National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC) represented by Arc. Shehu Tukur commended the Fulani people for showcasing their culture with a view of preserving it.
He also lauded their initiative to create an international cattle market and believed that it would go a long way to contribute to the socioeconomic development of the country.
The festival had in attendance Fulani people from the 19 Northern States as well as other states of the country. (www.krestnews.com).