Senator Katung, Wife Joins Diplomatic Corps in Celebrating Afan Cultural Festival

By: Abubakar Labaran

The Senator representing Kaduna South Senatorial Zone, Barrister Sunday Marshall Katung, alongside his wife, Mrs. Abigail Marshall Katung, joined hundreds of well-wishers and members of the diplomatic corps to celebrate the historic Afan Cultural Festival in Kagoro, Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The Afan Cultural Festival is celebrated annually on January 1st by the Gworok people of Kaura Local Government.

Speaking as a special guest at the 2026 event, Senator Katung expressed that he was deeply honoured to be part of the colourful and historic festival, which he described as a vibrant celebration reflecting the rich heritage, resilience, and unity of the Gworok people.

He observed that the festival is a powerful manifestation of the people's identity, values, and collective memory, carefully preserved and passed down through generations.

"I salute our traditional rulers, elders, cultural custodians, women, and youths who continue to uphold and safeguard our heritage," the Senator said. "The active involvement of young people in this festival gives great hope that our culture will not only endure but thrive in the years ahead."

He added, "Through our language, music, dance, attire, food, and customs, we tell our story: who we are, where we come from, and what we stand for. The Gworok people have shown admirable commitment to preserving these traditions in the face of modern pressures and deserve commendation for this steadfast dedication."

Senator Katung appealed to all, especially the people of Kaduna South Senatorial District, to continually reflect on the unifying values of unity, peace, hard work, and mutual respect.

"These values remain essential to the sustainable development of our communities," he stated. "Culture and development are not opposites; rather, they are partners. When we build on our cultural strengths, we lay a solid foundation for progress."

The Senator also used the occasion to appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for projects in the district, including the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, with a College of Medicine to be sited in Manchok, and the Federal Medical Centre, Kafanchan.

In the same vein, he commended the Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani. "Uba Sani, whom I consider a dear brother, for his genuine efforts at restoring dignity, peace, and hope to our people. We pray for the sustenance of the peace we currently enjoy and for accelerated development across the senatorial district."

He  congratulated the festival organisers for their vision, commitment, and dedication, praying that the celebration continues to grow in stature and significance.

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