The Gbagyi Elders Forum (GEF) is committed to protecting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Gbagyi people.
In a recent meeting in Minna, Niger State, the Chairman of the GEF Board of Trustees, Mr Peterson Kaura, emphasised the growing threats faced by the Gbagyi community, including urbanisation, economic challenges, and political marginalisation.
He pointed out that, despite the Gbagyi’s deep historical roots and contributions to Nigeria’s development, there is very little documentation of their history, leading to the erosion of their cultural identity.
Kaura highlighted the role of the Gbagyi in shaping Nigeria’s development, especially in the founding of key Northern Nigerian capitals like Zungeru, Kaduna, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as well as the historical ties of Minna to the Gbagyi.
However, he noted that the community’s core values of trust, hospitality, and hard work are being undermined, and the issue of ancestral land ownership remains a contentious matter in places like Abuja, Kaduna, and other regions.
The lack of strong leadership in the past has left the Gbagyi vulnerable to political marginalization, further exacerbating their economic hardships and lack of infrastructure.
The GEF is calling for targeted efforts to promote education, economic empowerment, and the preservation of Gbagyi history and culture.
The forum is also urging governments at all levels to address security concerns affecting Gbagyi lands, particularly in Kaduna, Niger, Kogi, and the FCT, where insecurity and displacement have become major challenges.
In addition, the GEF praised the appointment of Zephaniah Jisalo to the Federal Executive Council, seeing it as a step toward greater recognition of the Gbagyi people.
To foster unity and development, the GEF plans to establish a Gbagyi Land Rights Committee to address ancestral land issues, as well as an Economic Development Initiative to promote entrepreneurship and job creation.
They are also advocating for the completion of key infrastructure projects, such as the Sarkin-Pawa to Kaduna Road, to improve security and economic opportunities.
The GEF is also organising the First Annual Gbagyi Cultural Festival in February 2026, aiming to bring the community together and celebrate its heritage. The forum remains dedicated to working with government and stakeholders to ensure the preservation of Gbagyi culture, economic development, and political inclusion.
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