By joshua LIPU to Mark 53rd Anniversary with Launch of Two Books
By Musa Tanimu Nasidi
The Lokoja Indigenous Peoples’ Union (LIPU) has concluded arrangements to celebrate its 53rd anniversary with the unveiling and launch of two books aimed at documenting the history, cultural heritage and identity of the indigenous people of Lokoja, Kogi State.
The event is scheduled to hold on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at the University Auditorium, Adankolo Campus, Federal University Lokoja, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
The Chairman of LIPU, ESV Alhaji Aliu Lawal Jiya, FPA, MNIVS, RSV, who is also the Maiyaki of Lokoja and a retired Permanent Secretary, said the anniversary celebration would serve as a bridge between the town’s rich historical past and its future development.
He said the unveiling of the two books was part of the union’s efforts to preserve Lokoja’s indigenous history, promote cultural identity and ensure that the community’s heritage was properly documented for future generations.
“For 53 years, LIPU has remained a vanguard of unity, cultural preservation and socio-economic advocacy.
“The unveiling of these two landmark books is a deliberate effort to document our indigenous history, secure our identity and present our authentic narrative to the world,” Jiya said.
The statement, signed by the union’s Public Relations Officer, Alhaji Idris Abubakar, said the event was expected to attract prominent indigenes of Lokoja, traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders.
It added that the Maigari of Lokoja would serve as the Royal Father of the Day, leading other traditional rulers expected at the occasion.
According to the statement, the book launch will feature specially appointed launchers, with proceeds expected to support the wide distribution of the publications to educational institutions, libraries and households.
Funds realised from the exercise will also support LIPU’s community intervention programmes, including youth empowerment, historical research, publications and educational scholarships.
The union called on members of the press, community stakeholders and well-wishers to participate in the anniversary celebration, describing it as an opportunity to promote Lokoja’s history, cultural identity and development.