An Abuja-based organization, Club De Pals, has called for greater unity among Tiv people to promote socio-economic development for the Tiv community in Benue State and across the nation.
The club’s president, Mr. Richard Aondona Nduul, made this appeal during a passionate speech at the Club De Pals’ end-of-year reunion and awards ceremony in Abuja on Saturday.
The event, centered on building camaraderie and cultural pride, highlighted the club’s goals of strengthening ties within the Tiv community while encouraging collective progress. In his address, Mr. Nduul emphasized the importance of unity, especially in Benue State, where divisive politics and rivalries often hinder progress. He questioned why unity among Tiv people is stronger in diaspora communities than back home, urging a return to the spirit of togetherness seen outside the state.
Mr. Nduul called for adopting a spirit of unity akin to early church teachings, stressing that “the success of one is the success of all.” He referenced Psalm 133, likening unity to the refreshing and nourishing goodness of oil, symbolizing mutual prosperity.
Looking ahead, the club revealed its bold 2025 agenda, including plans for establishing a Tiv House in Abuja. This facility, described by Mr. Nduul as a cultural hub for Tiv people, would offer cultural delicacies and foster a sense of community. He encouraged members to contribute generously to the project.
The club also unveiled plans to engage younger generations in preserving Tiv culture, with initiatives such as holiday camps where children will learn traditional customs, cuisine, and the importance of unity. “If we instill these values in our children from an early age, they will carry them into adulthood,” said Mr. Nduul.
In a touching moment, Mr. Nduul extended an olive branch to former members, apologizing for past misunderstandings and inviting them to return. He emphasized reconciliation as a core principle of his leadership.
The event’s guest speaker, Prof. Gabriel Moti, discussed Benue State’s struggling economy, identifying key challenges and proposing solutions for sustainable growth. He urged the state government to reduce insecurity and decrease its reliance on federal allocations, suggesting a focus on improving internally generated revenue instead.
Prof. Moti pointed out that while Benue is rich in resources, including minerals and agricultural products like soybeans, its economic growth remains stagnant. He highlighted the paradox of poverty amidst abundant resources and stressed the need for prudent economic management and job creation. Prof. Moti also lamented the high poverty rate and the over-dependence on federal allocations, suggesting that these issues have contributed to the state’s declining economic fortunes and the reluctance of investors to engage in the region.
In light of these challenges, Prof. Moti recommended that the government address insecurity and shift its focus to boosting local economic growth to achieve sustainable development in Benue.
The ceremony also recognized individuals for their contributions to the club and the broader community, with awards presented to notable members, including Engr. Prof. Joseph Utsev, Minister of Water Resources, represented by Barr. Godwin Buluku.
Mr. Nduul congratulated the awardees and encouraged others to continue their good work. The event also featured the unveiling of the planned Club House project in Abuja, with generous donations made by club members to support its completion.
As the ceremony concluded, attendees were reminded of the club’s motto, “Unity in Friendship,” and its mission to foster community, build bridges, and promote mutual support. With renewed energy and an ambitious future vision, Club De Pals demonstrated its commitment to making unity a reality.