Pambah Promotions brought together corporate stakeholders and entrepreneurs in Plateau state for the first edition of “A Discuss!” (turning promises into reality) fully sponsored by Rt. Hon. Ibrahim Baba Hassan aimed at deliberating on issues affecting each industry and legislative policies that influence commercial and creative engagement.
The event themed “The gains of a private sector driven dialogue in influencing legislative decision towards promoting commercial and creative engagements” was held on Thursday 16th February at Ganaka Auditorium, Catholic Bishops Court, Jos Plateau.
In his words, the former Deputy Speaker of Plateau State House of Assembly and current Member Representing Jos North-North Constituency, Hon. Ibrahim Baba Hassan hinted that
“If only we can value ideas through legislative procedures, the private sector will thrive beyond human imaginations”.
Delivering her welcoming address Mallo Palang Faith, CEO of Pambah Promotions stated that the initiative is saddled with a mission and vision of looking into practical ways of creating a platform to grow the needs of our society.
“A Discuss” is an Initiative of Pambah Promotions that brings together portfolio employees, creatives, commuters, independent contractors, and digital entrepreneurs from a variety of private sector fields to discuss issues that concern the populace and devise strategies for getting their voices heard to influence government policies which can evolve into practical solutions.
The core of this discussion is the fact that the private sector can only thrive in a supportive public environment that encourages entrepreneurs and corporate organizations.
“A Discuss” provides a platform for passionate people to spark discussions capable of influencing government policies toward the establishment of a sustainable economy in which businesses can thrive. We are proud to announce that this edition has been fully sponsored by the Rite Honorable Ibrahim Baba Hassan.”
Edge Golbador, a singer-songwriter, founder of the ‘Dear Artist’ initiative, and guest speaker at the event spoke on the need to have a working structure in whatever one is doing as having skills and talent is not enough.
” Many years back I wrote a song that was a huge success and got me traveling all over the world but came crashing down because I was not prepared for that, I didn’t have a structure that can help me hold on to that success and that’s when I realized having talent is not enough.
“So I decided to build the structure I lacked, I started educating myself, reading, networking with people and that’s how ‘dear artist’ came to be. An initiative that empowers Plateau artists giving them a brand to work with and helping them market their works. Dear Artist focuses on educating the artist to see art as a business because the business allows the talent to thrive, 90% hard work and 10% talent are what make you stay on top.
“Therefore there is a need for artists and stakeholders in Jos to collectively collaborate to be able to do business that will move the industry in Plateau forward.”
David Daser, the Director General of Plateau State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (PICTDA) in his remarks spoke on the need to properly understand what policies are and how they are implemented in each sector.
” There is a need for policy entrepreneurs, that is people who understand what policies are and are able to checkmate and monitor the implementation of these policies into bills and laws.
“Every act of government is a key implementation process of its policies, so it is important to know the government and how to hold them by their policies whenever they come into power.”
Highlight, of the event, was the focused group interactive session in which participants came together in different groups to highlight challenges bordering their industries followed by the presentation of the highlighted issues.
The event also witnessed a special performance by the Stone Ezel Arts Group.
On Saturday 2nd May 2026, the Jos Wildlife Park hosted a pilot edition of The Honeybee Experience, invitees were immersed in the fascinating world of bees. 10 Exclusive attendees took part in the multi-station tour exploring the economic, ecological and cultural value of honeybees. This rich ecotourism campaign combines nature (bees and wildlife), education, agriculture, and local culture to promote awareness and encourage sustainability.
This initiative is facilitated by Afrobees9ja and Apis Interactive Network Ltd., in partnership with Bloom Niche Prime Ventures, under the auspices of the ongoing IDEAS TVET Beekeeping Training Programme, at Jos Wildlife Park.
Opening: The Honey Bar
The Honeybee Experience opened to special guests with a curated honey tasting titled, “The Honey Bar” where participants sampled seven (7) varieties of pure Nigerian honey sourced from flowering plants such as eucalyptus, sunflower, oil palm, acacia, citrus, locust bean, and shea butter.
The “Honey bar” was the visitor’s first stop, introducing them to a variety of distinct honey flavours. Young apiculturists in training guided guests through the honey bar, sharing facts about the traceability of the honey samples displayed, the botanical origins, flavour profiles and the unique properties associated with each.
Storytelling and Bee Trivia Engage Guests
In the museum conference room, participants engaged in trivia sessions that sparked curiosity and lively discussion, before proceeding to a documentary screening on bees and honey production, which highlighted the ecological importance of bees to human livelihoods and the broader ecosystem. The session continued with live quizzes, where participants deepened their understanding of bee communication, colony organisation, and the critical role of bees in global food production.
As a follow-up to honey tasting, this segment captures the essence of the Honeybee Experience while offering a deeper understanding of its lasting impact.
Live Hive Observation
One of the major highlights of the event was the hive observation, where participants wore protective veils to view a live bee colony through a transparent exhibition hive.
During the session, a guide identified the queen bee, worker bees, and drones while explaining their distinct roles within the colony structure.
Several attendees describe hive observation as their first close interaction with live bees. “I came in nervous, but I left fascinated,” a guest said after the demonstration. This moment during hive observation echoed the storytelling segment, reinforcing comprehension.
Honey-Based Cuisine
Local dishes prepared with honey were served at the Park Café. Menu offerings include masa with honey, awara glazed with honey, couscous served with honey gravy, unsweetened cakes paired with honey varieties, and beverages – honey cider and honey mead wine.
One of the anchors said the honey-cuisine demonstrates the versatility of honey in food culture and hospitality.
Honeybee Product Exhibition
During the exhibition, a demonstration of bee venom therapy thrilled volunteers who received controlled bee stings under supervision. They also explored various honeybee products including comb honey, beeswax, bee pollen and propolis, alongside beeswax-based cosmetics such as hair cream and body ointment.
The anchor of the exhibition mentioned that bee venom therapy is an ancient practice attracting growing scientific interest for its potential therapeutic applications. Bee venom contains melittin, a compound currently under scientific study for its potential anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, including research into conditions such as arthritis and certain cancer types.
The exhibition highlights the potential of honeybee-derived products beyond nutrition and local dishes. It reveals a growing interest in apiculture innovations and their contributions to health, wellness, and sustainable development.
Tourism Booster
The Honeybee Experience amplifies ongoing efforts to position Plateau State as a tourist destination for natural and cultural experiences. Observers note that the initiative combines agriculture, conservation, food culture, and tourism in a way that could attract both local and international visitors to Jos Wildlife Park.
Following the successful launch of the VIP pilot edition, guests, organisers, and beekeeping trainees expressed optimism about its potential to become a major addition to Plateau State’s growing ecotourism industry.
In a historic move set to redefine the preservation and global promotion of Nigeria’s cultural heritage, the Kingdom of Iwopin has entered into a landmark strategic partnership with Digital Transformation Media Limited (DTML) for the digitalisation and international promotion of the revered Okosi Festival.
The agreement, signed May 9, 2026 on the sidelines of the colourful Okosi Iwopin Ajidagan 2026 Festival, marks a defining moment in the cultural and economic trajectory of Iwopin, as the Kingdom embarks on a journey to elevate the annual Okosi boat regatta from a celebrated local heritage event into a globally recognised cultural tourism spectacle.
Speaking on the significance of the agreement, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sunday Adeniyi Agbojo, the Liken of Iwopin Kingdom, delivered a profound and visionary address that underscored the cultural, historical, and transformational importance of the landmark partnership.
Okosi Iwopin: A heritage reawakened for the world
His Royal Majesty described the Okosi Festival as more than a celebration, but a living testament to the identity, resilience, and maritime heritage of the Iwopin people.
“This is not merely the signing of an agreement; it is the opening of a new chapter in the history of our Kingdom,” the monarch declared. “For generations, the Okosi Festival has been the heartbeat of our people, a sacred convergence of culture, history, and communal pride expressed through the rhythms of the waters, the splendour of our regatta, and the unity of our people.”
The Royal Father emphasised that the partnership with DTML represents a deliberate and strategic effort to ensure that this heritage is not only preserved but amplified across Nigeria, Africa and beyond.
“In an age where the world is increasingly interconnected through technology, it is imperative that our heritage is not confined to our shores alone. Through this collaboration, the sights, sounds, and spirit of Okosi will travel beyond Iwopin, beyond Ogun State, and beyond Nigeria, to reach audiences across Africa and the global community.”
Drawing a powerful historical parallel, Oba Agbojo positioned the Okosi Festival within the broader narrative of African cultural renaissance.
“We recall with pride the great cultural convergence that took place during FESTAC ‘77 in Lagos, where the richness of Black heritage was displayed before the world. The Okosi Festival, which was proudly showcased at this historic event, stands in that same lineage of cultural excellence, a showcase of identity, heritage, and tradition that deserves its rightful place on the global stage.”
He further noted that the digital transformation initiative would ensure that the festival evolves while retaining its authenticity.
“This partnership guarantees that while we embrace modern technology, we do not lose the essence of who we are. Our traditions will remain sacred, our stories will remain authentic, and our people will remain at the centre of this transformation.”
“This is not merely the signing of an agreement; it is the opening of a new chapter in the history of our Kingdom,” the monarch declared. “For generations, the Okosi Festival has been the heartbeat of our people, a sacred convergence of culture, history, and communal pride expressed through the rhythms of the waters, the splendour of our regatta, and the unity of our people.”
A cultural and economic transformation agenda
The monarch highlighted the broader implications of the agreement, particularly its potential to drive economic growth and youth empowerment within the Kingdom.
“This initiative is not only about culture; it is about prosperity. It is about creating opportunities for our youth, empowering our artisans, and positioning Iwopin as a destination of choice for cultural tourism. Through digital innovation, we will unlock new economic pathways for our people.”
He expressed confidence in DTML’s capacity to deliver on the ambitious vision outlined in the the landmark partnership agreement.
“We have found in DTML a partner that understands both the power of storytelling and the importance of technology in shaping the future. Together, we will ensure that Okosi becomes a beacon of cultural pride and a driver of economic advancement.”
Edi Lawani: Bridging heritage and global entertainment
Entertainment legend and Advisory Board Member at DTML, Mr. Edi Lawani, brought a unique perspective to the partnership, positioning it within the global evolution of cultural festivals as platforms of influence and economic value.
“This is a defining moment, not just for Iwopin, but for Nigeria’s cultural landscape,” he stated. “Across the world, cultural festivals have evolved into powerful global brands, platforms that attract tourism, investment, and international recognition. What we are witnessing here is the birth of such a transformation for the Okosi Festival.”
Mr. Lawani emphasised that the fusion of tradition and modern media would unlock unprecedented opportunities.
“The richness of the Okosi Festival lies in its authenticity: the regatta, the cultural expressions, the communal energy. What DTML brings to the table is the ability to package and project this authenticity in a way that resonates globally, without diluting its essence.”
He noted that the initiative aligns with global trends in cultural consumption.
“Today’s audience is digital. They experience culture through screens, through immersive content, through storytelling that transcends geography. By digitising Okosi Iwopin, we are not just preserving it; we are making it accessible to the world.”
Mr. Lawani also highlighted the importance of positioning the festival within the international tourism ecosystem.
“With the right execution, Okosi Iwopin can become a destination event, something people plan their calendars around, just as they do with major festivals across Africa and beyond. This partnership lays the foundation for that reality.”
Technology, catalyst for cultural transformation
Providing the strategic and operational perspective, Mr. Shina Badaru, Founder and Chairman of DTML, described the agreement as a bold step in redefining how culture is preserved and promoted in the digital age.
“At DTML, we believe that culture and technology are not opposing forces; they are complementary drivers of progress,” he stated. “This partnership embodies that philosophy by leveraging digital tools to amplify one of Nigeria’s most unique cultural assets.”
Mr. Badaru explained that the Okosi Iwopin programme aligns with the technology group’s “Nigeria Heritage Initiative” which includes the development of a digital ecosystem for the festival.
Under the plan, DTML said it has success acquired the premium Nigerian internet domain, www.okosiiwopin.ng, to serve as the digital home of the annual Okosi Ajidagan Festival on the internet.
“The platform,” according to Mr. Badaru, “will drive strategic storytelling, tourism promotion, partnerships, media engagement and innovative digital experiences that will elevate the festival onto the global tourism map.”
He added that, “we are deploying a multi-layered strategy that includes a dedicated digital platform, immersive multimedia content, live streaming capabilities, and the creation of a digital cultural archive. This ensures that the Okosi Iwopin Festival is not only experienced physically but also digitally, by audiences anywhere in the world.”
He stressed that the initiative goes beyond visibility to deliver measurable impact.
“This is about building a sustainable cultural economy. Through strategic partnerships, sponsorships, and global media engagement, we will create value that benefits the community, supports local enterprises, and attracts investment.”
Mr. Badaru also underscored the importance of capacity building within the community.
“A key component of this initiative is empowering local youth with skills in digital media, content creation, and event technology. This ensures that the transformation is inclusive and that the benefits are felt across the community.”
Positioning Okosi Iwopin on the global stage
The agreement establishes a long-term framework for collaboration, spanning a diverse array of sustained effort to build the Okosi Iwopin Festival into a globally recognised brand.
Under the agreement, DTML assumes the role of Exclusive Strategic Partner for the digitalisation and promotion of the festival, while the Iwopin Kingdom preserves cultural stewardship and institutional support.
At its core, the partnership is about repositioning the Okosi Iwopin Festival as a flagship cultural event that reflects the richness of Nigeria’s heritage while embracing the possibilities of the digital future.
From the vibrant boat regatta that defines the festival to the intricate cultural expressions that accompany it, every element is set to be documented, preserved, and showcased to a global audience.
The initiative will leverage advanced media production, strategic marketing, and international partnerships to ensure that the festival gains visibility across key markets.
New era for cultural heritage in Nigeria
The agreement between the Kingdom of Iwopin and DTML signals a broader shift in how cultural heritage is approached in Nigeria, moving from preservation in isolation to promotion through innovation.
It represents a model that can be replicated across other cultural assets in the country, demonstrating how technology can be harnessed to unlock value while safeguarding tradition.
With the combined strength of traditional authority, creative expertise, and technological innovation, the festival is poised to become a symbol of cultural pride, economic opportunity, and international recognition.
In the words of His Royal Majesty: “The world will hear our story. The world will see our culture. And the world will know Iwopin.”