By Mike Atsor 

Traditional rulers, political leaders, and distinguished guests from across Nigeria gathered in Lafia on Monday to celebrate the 70th birthday of the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage. The event showcased royal unity, cultural heritage, and recognition of the monarch's contributions to peacebuilding, traditional leadership, and community development.

The celebration also featured the presence of Geoffrey Iorvaa and James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, underscoring the significance of the occasion among traditional institutions in Nigeria.

It was a display of royal dignity, cultural pride, and inter-community solidarity as the Ter Tiv of Nasarawa State, Chief Barr. Geoffrey Iorvaa, joined eminent traditional rulers and dignitaries to celebrate the 70th birthday of the Emir of Lafia, Hon. Justice Sidi Bage, JSC (Rtd.), Chairman of the Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs.

The grand celebration took place at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Lafia on June 22, 2026, attracting traditional rulers, political leaders, community stakeholders, and guests from various parts of Nigeria.

The gathering honoured the Emir's decades of service in both the judiciary and traditional leadership. Widely respected for his role in promoting dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and community development, the monarch received tributes from well-wishers who described his leadership as exemplary and impactful.

One of the defining moments of the event was the presence of Tiv traditional rulers from different states, reflecting strong bonds among traditional institutions and reinforcing mutual respect across ethnic and cultural lines.

Chief Barr. Geoffrey Iorvaa was seen engaging with fellow royal fathers and distinguished guests, highlighting the collaborative role traditional institutions continue to play in preserving cultural identity and strengthening peaceful relations among communities.

The attendance of His Royal Majesty, Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, the Tor Tiv V, further elevated the ceremony and underscored the importance of the event within the Tiv traditional establishment and the broader landscape of Nigerian traditional leadership.

Speakers at the occasion praised the Emir's commitment to service, justice, and societal development, noting that his leadership has contributed significantly to stability and progress within Lafia and Nasarawa State.

Beyond celebrating a personal milestone, the gathering served as a platform for strengthening relationships among traditional institutions and reaffirming their collective commitment to peacebuilding, cultural preservation, and national cohesion.

The event highlighted the continuing relevance of traditional rulers as custodians of culture, mediators in community disputes, and partners in grassroots development initiatives across Nigeria.