The Federal Government has concluded plans to immortalize the founder of Opobo Kingdom, Jubo Jubogbha, popularly known in history as King Jaja of Opobo.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa. The Minister made the disclosure while inaugurating the Technical Committee to implement the construction of King Jaja of Opobo Historical and Cultural Centre.
NAN reports that the Minister stated that the Centre would be built in Opobo Kingdom in Rivers State.
The Minister said, “The project signifies a milestone in taking Nigeria’s Art and Cultural heritage to enviable heights. She pointed that the Centre would make history always to remember the historic monarch.
“I am delighted to address you at this epoch-making event: the inauguration of the Technical Committee to oversee the implementation of a project considered key to preserving our cultural heritage. The establishment of the King Jaja of Opobo Cultural and Historical Centre is a testament to our commitment to immortalizing past heroes and promoting our cultural identity. One of the ministry’s core mandates is immortalizing past heroes by promoting national heritage and values,’’ she said.
The Minister used the occasion to state the Federal Government’s readiness to partner with any State, Community, individual or group. Towards the immortalization of persons of proven capabilities.
“Those whose immense contributions helped shape and project the uniqueness of our cultural values, norms, and artefacts as a people. This project is designed to be a historical tribute to the cultural renaissance and a clarion call for cultural preservation. It is a step to encourage our nation’s quest for cultural tourism and boost diplomacy in international affairs.”
There are several accounts of the 19th century of King Opobo’s life and death. But in all the accounts, it is agreed that he was among the first monarchs to resist British colonialism.
King Jaja of Opobo, Jubo Jubogha, was a merchant prince who lived between 1821 and 1891. He founded the Opobo Kingdom in the present-day Rivers State, South-South Nigeria.
Speaking further, Musawa added that the centre’s establishment aligned with Nigeria’s vision. Which is to utilize the art, culture, and tourism sectors to create job opportunities for the teaming youth.
“The project is expected to create employment in various fields such as construction, tourism management, and cultural preservation. It will also provide a platform for the youth to contribute to and benefit from the preservation of their cultural heritage.”
The Minister, therefore, urged the technical committee to regard their selection as a clarion call to national assignment. She charged them to provide regular updates to the stakeholders on its activities.
Musawa also used the occasion to appreciate the Government of Rivers State. The Amayanabo of Opobo, and the people of Opobo Kingdom. She praised them for their vision and commitment to sustaining their cultural heritage. And also, to immortalizing their progenitor, the late King Jaja of Opobo.
She said, “Let me remind you that you must be critical in completing this arduous task. Your assignment will require you to serve as a liaison between the Federal Government, represented by the Ministry, the State Government and the host Community.”
The Minister noted that the Committee must develop a work plan for the project. And also, to draft a strategy for its implementation.
She pointed that this must include detailing the timeline and suggesting other terms of reference that are considered germane to the project’s success.
In his earlier remark, the Natural Ruler and the Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Dandeson Douglas Jaja, Jeki V, Treaty King, thanked the Federal Government for showing interest in the project.
On behalf of other royal fathers of Opobo Kingdom, the Royal Father appreciated the initiative to establish such a historical and cultural centre to immortalize King Jaja.
The member representing Andoni/Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency of Rivers State, Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, thanked the Minister for the project. He lauded the Federal Government for the initiating the project, which will immortalize the founder of Opobo kingdom.
Praising the initiative, she said, “This project has taken us several years, and the other people there did not share our vision. But we are delighted. I am glad that a Minister came and bought into the vision. And today, we are starting the journey to make people know exactly our intentions.”
source: NAN
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