The Member representing Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Chief Thomas Ereyitomi, has been conferred with the title of Madugu of Arewa Warri and Environs in Delta State.
Speaking at the maiden edition of the Arewa Day Celebration in Warri, where he received the honour, Chief Ereyitomi expressed appreciation to the Arewa community for their peaceful coexistence with the people of Warri. He commended their efforts in fostering unity and urged them to continue strengthening the cordial relationship that has long existed between both communities.
The lawmaker reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Arewa community through empowerment initiatives and constituency projects. He also encouraged them to remain law-abiding and peaceful, noting that peace is essential for attracting development and tapping into the opportunities offered by his programmes and those of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Presenting the humanitarian award and performing the turbaning ceremony, the Sarkin Hausawa of Warri and Environs, Alhaji Adamu Muhammed Sanusi (Wazirin), praised Chief Ereyitomi for his consistent contributions to the welfare and progress of the Arewa people in the constituency, describing him as a true friend and partner in community development.
According to him, “Chief Ereyitomi has always shown genuine commitment to the welfare of the Hausa community across the three Warri Local Government Areas. Whenever there is a need, he responds promptly and generously. Beyond that, he has consistently included the Arewa community in his empowerment programmes. His unmatched generosity and constant support made it only fitting that we honour him after carefully reviewing his many contributions.”
Also speaking, Danjuma Mohammed (DSVG), Chairman of Hausa Quarters, Warri, explained that the Arewa Day Celebration was created to appreciate their host communities and individuals who have played significant roles in improving their welfare and making their stay in Warri peaceful and comfortable. He noted that Chief Ereyitomi stood out for his remarkable impact and genuine concern for the Arewa people.
Mohammed added that the spirit of Arewa Day and its accompanying awards is built on the values of ethno-religious harmony, mutual respect, and socio-cultural tolerance, which he described as the true foundation for national peace, unity, and prosperity.
In his remarks, Safiyanu Hamisu, Vice Chairman of the Hausa Quarters in Warri, explained that the Arewa Day Celebration, also known as the Arewa Festival, is dedicated to showcasing the rich culture, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of Northern Nigeria across its 19 states.
He announced that the festival will now become an annual event in Warri, just as it is in other parts of the country. Hamisu, speaking on behalf of the Arewa Community in Warri, expressed deep appreciation to Rt. Hon. Chief Thomas Ereyitomi for his continuous support to the community and for making the maiden celebration both successful and memorable.
Other speakers at the event included Mohammed Mecadulawa, Director General of the Arewa Community Development Support, and Mr. Vincent Uduaghan, a former Commissioner in Delta State. They both congratulated Chief Ereyitomi, newly installed as the Madugu of Arewa Warri and Environs, describing the honour as well-deserved in recognition of his consistent assistance and goodwill towards the Arewa people.
The colourful celebration featured traditional Wasan Koroso dance performances, a launching ceremony, cake cutting, and other cultural displays. Dignitaries in attendance included a representative of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, Chief Wilson Olley, former House of Representatives member Hon. Efe Afe, Chief Vincent Okudolor, and Asiwaju Sola Adebayo, a renowned media consultant and farmer, among others.
Read also: Presentation of the Staff of Office to Ovie of Udu Kingdom, HRM Michael Orugbo
