By Zamani Faith Gongur and Umaru Peace
The National Association of Ngas Students (NANGS), University of Jos, recently hosted the highly acclaimed Nde Dantala Dance group leaving students mesmerized with their outstanding performance and showcase of the rich Ngas culture.
The cultural event which saw thrilling cultural performance by Nde Dantala and his band, also had a series of other highlights, including Mr and Miss NANGS pageant, NANGS T-shirt launch and donations from dignitaries.
The Keynote Speaker, Mr. John Gozak, while giving his remark, empahasised on the need to invest in the future of the youth. “We must empower the Ngas youth by making investments in their future through education and entrepreneurship because they are shining examples of integrity and hope”.
In the same vein, Mr. John Gozak, a well-known figure in Ngas leadership and academics, lectured NANGS students on the value of academic and entrepreneurial endeavors and the resilience of Ngas youngsters.
Nde Dantala, a renowned Ngas singer, appreciated the association for the giving him platform to promote Ngas culture. “I’m incredibly honored to contribute to the celebration of Ngas culture here in the University of Jos. Being a native of the area, I have a strong desire to protect and uphold our customs. It gives me great satisfaction to see the Ngas people happy and appreciative”.
Dorathy Ephraim, a 100 level student of Accounting emerged as Miss NANS and Ritji Alvin Goladi, a 200 level student of Political Science emerged as Mr NANS
In addition, NANGS T-shirt was launched and donations were made by dignitaries, worthy of mention were, Hon. Dewan K. Gabriel, the Speaker, Plateau State House of Assembly, who donated one hundred and fifty thousand naira through his Personal Assistant.
Similarly, Hon. David Barji, who was represented by Mr. Abel Golmut Rotshak, donated one hundred thousand naira among others.
President of NANGS, Miss Gopye Christiana Nenrit, conveyed her sincere gratitude to all attendees and contributors, highlighting the teamwork that resulted in the celebration’s great success. She said, “It is clear that NANGS Day 2024 has not only honored Ngas culture but also forged relationships and promoted a feeling of community among all those in attendance”.
Miss NANGS 2024, Dorathy Ephraim, described her emergence as the Miss NANGS as an opportunity to further promote Ngas culture. “It is a dream come true, I am humbled by the opportunity to speak for our neighborhood and advance our culture on a broader scale”.
Mr. Ritji Alvin Goladi, Mr. NANGS 2024, stated that his emergence as Mr. NANGS 2024 is a great honor. “I am thrilled to be of service to our community and to help Ngas culture and values flourish”.
Joy Bala, a 200 level student of Political Science, expressed her delight for the successful completion of the cultural day. “NANGS Day was a blast! It makes me feel proud and happy to see our culture honored. These kinds of occasions are what really make our time at the University unforgettable”.