COURTESY: Hon. Mary Gaisa Seeks Royal Blessings, Pays New Year Courtesy Visit to Takum Traditional Rulers.

By Jako Keke, January 1, 2026

In keeping with age-long cultural traditions, the Special Assistant to the Taraba State Governor on Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Mary James Gaisa, on New Year’s Day paid a courtesy visit to royal fathers and elders of her hometown, Takum, to seek prayers, blessings and guidance for the year 2026.

The visit, which took place on January 1, was aimed at reaffirming respect for traditional institutions and acknowledging the vital role of elders in offering wisdom, moral direction and spiritual support, especially at the beginning of a new year.

Speaking during the visit, Hon. Gaisa described the gesture as a cultural obligation deeply rooted in African values, noting that seeking the counsel and prayers of elders remains a source of strength and direction for leaders and public office holders.

“I considered it necessary to begin the new year by paying homage to our royal fathers and elders, to seek their prayers and blessings as I step into the year ahead. Their fatherly guidance is invaluable, and I strongly believe their prayers will grant me spiritual strength and clarity in serving my people and the state,” she said.

During the visit, Hon. Gaisa paid homage to the First Class Chief of Takum, Barrister Sopiya Ahmadu Gboshi, who commended her humility and respect for tradition. He offered prayers for wisdom, good health and success in her responsibilities as a key member of the state’s leadership team.

Also visited were His Royal Highness Ephraim Bala Ashumanu, the Jukun Third Class Chief in Takum, and Wudu Ismaila, the Sarkin Hausawa of Takum, both of whom prayed for peace, unity and prosperity in Takum Local Government Area and Taraba State at large.

As part of the New Year engagements, Hon. Gaisa further extended her courtesy visits to nine Jukun clan kings within the Takum area. They include:

1. David Danjuma Nwunuji – Mai Angwa, Chamba

2. Alfred Usman – Kuru, Tikari

3. Daniel Tsokwa – Kuru, Lufu

4. Amos Tsokwa – Kuru, Jidu

5. Danladi Perewe – Kuru, Pa’ati

6. Kolomiya Baba – Tunwari

7. Tanko Soyonga Danjuma – Kuru, Barinya

8. Yakubu Madaki – Kuru, Pa’amu

9. Sayonga Abdullahi – Kuru, Gayam

The royal fathers expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of humility, cultural consciousness and respect for traditional authority. 

They collectively offered prayers for divine guidance, peace, and increased productivity in the agricultural sector, while encouraging continued collaboration between government and traditional institutions.

The visit showed Hon. Gaisa’s commitment to cultural values, grassroots engagement and inclusive leadership, as she begins another year of service in advancing agriculture and food security in Taraba State.