The Gbagyi Scholars Global Network First Leadership Summit
Theme: Scholarship and the Challenges of Self-Determination for National Development
Venue: Nigeria National Merit House, Maitama, Abuja
The Gbagyi Scholars Global Network successfully hosted its inaugural leadership summit at the prestigious Nigeria National Merit House in Maitama, Abuja. The event brought together intellectuals, policymakers, traditional leaders, and students to deliberate on the theme: Scholarship and the Challenges of Self-Determination for National Development.
Keynote Address
The keynote lecture was delivered by Professor Ibrahim Katampe, a distinguished scholar who serves as the Assistant Director for Innovation and Technology Transfer at Central State University, USA, and concurrently the Director of CEET. Prof. Katampe, a proud native of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), provided a thought-provoking discourse on the role of scholarship in addressing the challenges of self-determination.
In his lecture, Prof. Katampe emphasized the critical importance of solving internal challenges to gain relevance on the global stage. He urged the Gbagyi people to adopt a unified perspective, highlighting that collective efforts and shared goals are crucial for the socio-economic and cultural advancement of the community. He concluded his lecture by underscoring the necessity of self-determination as a means to achieve sustainable development and national significance.
Contributions from Other Dignitaries
The summit also featured addresses and insights from notable personalities, including:
The Deputy Governor of Niger State, who highlighted the importance of collaboration between scholars and policymakers for community development.
The Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Hon. Zephaniah Jisalo, who shared valuable perspectives on leveraging governmental frameworks to address challenges faced by indigenous communities.
The Esu Karu, Pharm. Dr. Luka Panya Baba, who emphasized the role of traditional institutions in fostering unity and progress among the Gbagyi people.
Attendance
The event was well-attended by a wide range of stakeholders, including numerous professors, PhD holders, university lecturers, and students. Their active participation demonstrated the collective commitment of the Gbagyi community to advancing scholarship and self-determination for national development.
The Gbagyi people, whose population in Nigeria is estimated to range between 12-15 million, are one of the largest ethnic groups in the country. They are indigenous to five states: Kaduna, Niger, Kogi, Nasarawa, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), where they form the majority population.
This widespread presence highlights their cultural and historical significance in Nigeria. Despite their large population, the Gbagyi people continue to strive for recognition and development within their communities while preserving their rich heritage.
The summit served as a platform to inspire collaboration among Gbagyi scholars and leaders while reinforcing the significance of education and self-determination as drivers of progress. It concluded with a resounding call for unity, innovation, and resilience in addressing challenges and positioning the Gbagyi people for global recognition and impact.
The Gbagyi Scholars Global Network has set a solid foundation for future engagements aimed at fostering intellectual growth, leadership development, and community transformation.
Theophilus Noah Baba (SIR TNB) For Abuja Affairs
