The Nyankpa Chiefdom was recently graced by a profound celebration of humanity, marking 25 years of enlightened leadership by His Royal Highness Barr. Dr. Joel S. Aninge, the Odyong Nyankpa. The event, a beautiful fusion of honour and humanitarian action, was presided over by His Excellency Amb Lt Gen Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd), who chaired the historic occasion.

Held at the Odyong Nyankpa Play Ground in Panda Development Area, the gathering was a testament to the respect and unity fostered by HRH Aninge’s reign. Dignitaries from across Nasarawa State came together in a spirit of communal respect, including representatives of His Excellency Governor Abdullahi A. Sule, former APC National Chairman His Excellency Abdullahi Adamu, His Royal Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba, the Gbong Gwom Jos, and HRH Justice Sidi Mohammed Bage (Rtd), Emir of Lafia. The Royal Fathers were represented.

Other Royal Fathers present are: Da Chung Mada HRH Dr. Joseph Haruna Kigbu, of Akwanga Local Government Area. HRH Alh. Ibrahim Usman Jibril
The Emir of Nasarawa, of Nasarawa Local Government Area. He is a senior Fulani traditional ruler in the state. HRH Alh. Luka Panya Baba
The Esu Karu, of Karu Local Government Area. HRH Alh. Umar Abubakar Isa Emir of Awe Local Government Area.
This was contained in a Statement Signed by Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu and made available to the press.

In his heartfelt remarks, Amb Lt. Gen Buratai Rtd expressed deep honour in celebrating this milestone. He reflected on a two-decade friendship with the monarch, praising his unique legacy of scholarship, justice, and unwavering dedication to his people’s wellbeing. “May this Silver Jubilee be a springboard for greater service and blessings for your community,” he stated, offering warm wishes for the King’s continued reign.

The commemoration was beautifully underscored by a direct act of care for the community. Driven by a shared commitment to uplift lives, the TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation and Tukur and Tukur Foundation organized a comprehensive free medical outreach. This mission brought essential healthcare services—including eye screenings, ENT treatments, and general consultations—directly to the doorsteps of the people, addressing needs with dignity and compassion.

The outreach served as a powerful reminder that true leadership is measured by its impact on human lives. The medical team, led by Col Haruna Idris Zaria (Rtd) of the Tukur and Tukur Foundation, provided care to 1,025 community members, offering treatments for common ailments and gifting reading glasses to many, thereby restoring not just health but also independence and comfort.

This Silver Jubilee was more than an anniversary; it was a reaffirmation of the sacred bond between a leader and his people. It highlighted how tradition, when guided by a heart for service, can powerfully unite a community and ignite tangible progress, setting a shining example of compassionate governance for Nasarawa State and beyond.