Italo Festival: Attah Calls for Cultural Reconnection and Igala Development

The Attah Igala and Chairman of the Kogi State Council of Chiefs, His Royal Majesty, Matthew Opaluwa, has called on Igala sons and daughters at home and in the diaspora to unite, promote peace, and leverage their networks towards developing Igala land and Nigeria at large.

The Attah Igala made the call in Abuja during a media briefing and the unveiling of ITALO, a symbol of festivity. He also emphasised the need for Igala people to reconnect with their cultural roots, preserve their traditional heritage, and strengthen their collective identity.

His Royal Majesty, who was represented by the Chairman of the Italo 2026 Planning Committee, Commodore Godwin Obaje, also stressed the importance of promoting unity among Igala indigenes both at home and in the diaspora.

According to him, historical accounts trace the origin of Italo to the early 20th century, when the Ata Igala travelled from Idah to Anyigba to interact with traditional rulers, title holders, community representatives and clan leaders.

The Chairman noted that the event would revive the cherished tradition, reconnect Igala people with their ancestral roots, and project the cultural identity of the kingdom to the international community.

He said the Italo festival represents more than just a cultural gathering, describing it as an important platform for preserving Igala history, strengthening the traditional institution, and passing cultural values on to younger generations.