The Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, has called on Nigerians to sustain prayers for the peace, progress and stability of the country.

Mr Abubakar made the call on Sunday in Bida during the Durbar festival, popularly known as Bariki in the Nupe language, marking the end of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

He described the Bariki festival as a cultural platform that showcases the rich heritage of the Nupe people through traditional music, horse riding, and paying homage to the Emir and other traditional leaders.

Mr Abubakar, also chairman of the Niger Council of Traditional Rulers, commended Governor Umaru Bago for executing people-centred projects across the state and for his continued support of the eight emirate councils.

He also urged residents of the state to continue supporting and cooperating with the administration to enable it to achieve its development goals.

Mr Abubakar also appreciated guests from within and outside the state, as well as his subjects, for attending and contributing to the success of the cultural event.

Speaking at the occasion, Mr Bago said the state government was collaborating with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) to promote the Bariki festival on the global stage because of its uniqueness and cultural significance.

The governor commended the Etsu Nupe for providing leadership among traditional rulers in the state and for supporting his administration’s policies and programmes.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting traditional institutions and preserving the state’s cultural heritage for future generations.

 (NAN)