The paramount ruler of the Atyap people, His Royal Highness Dominic Gambo Yahaya, Agwatyap III, has honoured the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic of Ahmadu Bello University, Prof. Raymond B. Bako, with the traditional title of TsinTsat Atyap (the precious stone of atyab).
A statement from the public affairs directorate office of the VC said the traditional investiture ceremony took place at the Agwatyap’s Palace in Zango Kataf, Kaduna State on Saturday, 27th June, 2026.
It formed part of the long-standing tradition of the Atyap traditional institution to recognise individuals whose contributions, achievements, and service have brought pride and honour to the land.
Zangon Kataf serves as the headquarters of Zangon Kataf Local Government Area in southern Kaduna and is the traditional centre of the Atyap people, who are known for their rich cultural heritage, traditions and strong communal values.
Prof Bako was honoured after the paramount ruler considered his outstanding track record, contributions and achievements over the years worthy of recognition by the Atyap traditional institution.
The ceremony was attended by members of the traditional council, title holders, community leaders, distinguished sons and daughters of the land, as well as representatives of government and other stakeholders.
Also present at the occasion was the representative of the Honourable Minister of Defence. The Zangon Kataf Local Government Chairman was represented at the event.
Other recipients honoured during the ceremony included Dr. Samuel Achi, who received the title of BandAtyap (the silo of the land; Honourable Mathew Simon Gwazau, honoured as SangAtyap (the light of Atyap; and Mr. Phillip Mugu, who received the title of AhiAtyap (the eyes of Atyap).
Others were Mr. Thomas Yahaya, Personal Assistant to the Agwatyap and brother to the traditional ruler, who was honoured with the title of FufuoAtyap (the ears of Atyap) .
Speaking on behalf of the recipients, Dr. Samuel Achi (BandAtyap), thanked the Agwatyap for the honour and recognition.
He described the conferment as a significant gesture and assured the traditional ruler and the people of Atyap of their continued commitment to serving their communities and contributing to the development of the land.
In his remarks, Agwatyap III said the recipients were honoured because of their proven track records and the positive impact of their contributions.
The royal father stressed that their achievements demonstrated the pride of the Atyap land in their accomplishments.
He charged them to remain worthy ambassadors of the community and to respond whenever their services were needed.
Representing Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Advancement, Research and Innovation, Prof. Aliyu Sanusi Rafindadi; Registrar, Rabiu Samaila; Acting University Librarian, Dr. Abubakar Abdullahi.
Others were the Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Dean, Faculty of Physical Sciences; Dean, Faculty of Basic Sciences; and Centre Leader, TETFund Centre of Excellence on Pedagogy.
They also included Director, EMDC; Deputy Registrar, Public Affairs Directorate; Ag. Special Assistant to the Vice-Chancellor; and Principal Technical Officer (Photography), Public Affairs Directorate, among others.
