Bokkos Agog: Butura NAHWAI Celebrated in Grand Finale
The people of Butura District in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State are known for their unique, serene, and hospitable environment. They are well-known for their rich cultural heritage beyond Bokkos and Plateau State.
During the weekend, they hosted the cream of society to their rich and arable land, showcasing their culture through dances, food cuisines, and other forms of their culture, both material and non-material, at the NAHWAI 2026 Annual Cultural Festival.
The event, which began almost a week ago, featured various activities, including visits to historic sites and cultural artefacts of the community, a gala night, media engagements, and more.
- Advertisement -
On Saturday, February 21, 2026, it was a moment of joy and celebration galore at Butura Gida (Wur) Playground, where dignitaries from all walks of life trooped in large numbers to witness the event. The major epoch-making event brought Bokkos town to a standstill as they hosted dignitaries for the precious occasion that has been observed for years.
Historically, the people have generally migrated with the Kulere people of Bokkos, who, according to oral history and traditions, migrated from Gobir in present-day Sokoto State with their Pyem friends of Gindiri, Mangu Local Government Area.
According to another tradition, some parts of the Ron Butura people originated from Borno area and came to their present location through Fier in Pankshin LGA. The two oral traditions agree on the convergence at Fier during the gradual migrations, and the narrative is the same from there to the present location.
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Architect Samuel Jatau, said, “Butura people have always been pacesetters and leaders. You have done well in so many sectors. The governor is happy with the project you have started on the Butura Village, and that is the only way we can preserve our culture as a people and bequeath it to the younger generations.
“Tourism cannot thrive where there is no peace. As a government, our focal point is to ensure there is peace in the land. Where there is peace, tourism can thrive.”
The National Museum and Monuments challenged all ethnic groups to speak their languages to their children, especially the Butura, as many languages are going extinct.
The Ujah of Anaguta, Dr. Johnson Joro Magaji, and the President, Jos North Traditional Council, encouraged the Butura people to always love one another and be vigilant.
The District Head of Butura, Dr. John G. Mallo Makwal II, called for unity among his subjects. The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), presented a plaque to the District Head.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, FEBRUARY 23RD 2026)
