Nigeria Hosts Its First Cultural Dog Exhibition as “Paws of Heritage NDBU2025” Show Makes History

The Paws of Heritage Dog Show, organized by King’s Dog Club in collaboration with the Nigeria Dog Breeders Union (NDBU), has officially made history as Nigeria’s first-ever cultural dog exhibition, attracting widespread recognition both locally and internationally. Held in Magboro, the event brought together dog enthusiasts to celebrate the fusion of tradition, community, and canine excellence.

At this groundbreaking exhibition, dogs appeared dressed in traditional Nigerian attires, proudly representing Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa and other cultural identities. Handlers also wore matching native outfits, creating a striking visual celebration of culture and companionship.

Several major awards highlighted the day’s activities. The Best in Show title was awarded to a Lhasa, recognized for its outstanding obedience and ability to follow instructions with precision. The Best in Breed accolade went to a Snowline German Shepherd, while the award for Best Culturally Dressed Dog was claimed by a Pug whose matching Yoruba agbada outfit, paired with its handler, captivated the crowd.

Another memorable moment was the presentation of the Best Young Promising Dog Breeder Award, given to a young girl named Treasure, whose passion for dogs and enthusiasm for learning impressed both judges and spectators.

The show’s atmosphere was further energized by live music performances, cultural games, interactive activities, and colorful photo sessions that made the event enjoyable for families, dog lovers, and visitors.

The exhibition also drew praise from the international canine community. Mrs. Claudia Galeotti of the ICDB Dog Show in Italy described the event as groundbreaking. In her translated message, she said:

> “How nice… It’s the first time ever that I’ve seen a photo of a Best in Show with people of colour, with clothes and backgrounds typical of their country. I find it wonderful. A step forward for humanity and a great merit for those who know how to make a difference. I’m referring to him—the President of the WDF—who deserves all my respect and is showing everyone what leadership is worth.”

Warm messages of appreciation were also received from the President of the Kennel Club Algeria, the President of the World Dog Federation, Kennel Club Colombia, the WDF African Union, and several other international kennel bodies, all applauding NDBU for advancing canine culture and organized dog exhibitions in Nigeria.

Organizers expressed gratitude to King’s Dog Club, NDBU officials, participants, and supporters who played key roles in making the event a success.

With Paws of Heritage setting a new cultural standard for dog shows in the country, the Nigerian canine community now looks forward to the NDBU National Dog Show 2026, which promises an even more remarkable experience.

A BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE TO HIS IMPERIAL MAJESTY EMPEROR ESEMONU CHRISTIAN

Today, we joyfully commemorate the birthday of a visionary leader, His Imperial Majesty Emperor King Dr. Ugochukwu Christian Esemonu, the revered Great Emperor of Santorini Empire and Administrator of the Global Throne United Kingdom of Atlantis. It’s a moment to reflect on his extraordinary life, remarkable leadership, and the profound impact he’s had on countless lives.

Emperor EseMonu Christian is more than a title holder; he’s a beacon of hope, a symbol of acceleration, and a champion of excellence. His dedication to serving humanity, without bounds or bias, has earned him widespread respect and admiration. With a career marked by remarkable achievements and a heart full of compassion, he has touched the lives of many, empowering them to reach their full potential.

As he celebrates another milestone, we celebrate not just a leader, but a mentor, a guide, and a friend to many. His legacy continues to inspire, uplift, and transform communities, both locally and globally. We pray that the Almighty remains his strength, guiding him with wisdom and empowering him to achieve greater heights.

To His Imperial Majesty, we say: Happy Birthday! May this year bring you boundless joy, continued faithfulness, and the fulfillment of every noble desire. Here’s to many more years of leading with grace, impacting lives, and shining brightly for the people of UKA and beyond.

_Happy birthday to you, Your Majesty!
Clement Emmanuel. Media Director (UKA)

Buratai Tasks ACF on Bold Northern Agenda, Food Security and National Unity at 25th Anniversary

Former Chief of Army Staff and former Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd), has congratulated the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) on its 25th anniversary, urging the organisation to spearhead a new era of purposeful leadership, regional development, and national cohesion.

In a goodwill message issued on November 20 in Kaduna to mark the Forum’s Silver Jubilee, Buratai described the ACF as an “indispensable pillar” that has consistently championed unity, peace, and progress in Northern Nigeria over the past quarter-century. He commended the Forum for sustaining the values of integrity, dialogue, and inclusiveness laid down by the region’s founding leaders, noting that the ACF has remained a critical platform for confronting the North’s most pressing developmental challenges.

Buratai, however, stressed that the next 25 years require a more strategic and proactive ACF—one capable of shaping a coherent, home-grown Northern agenda anchored on security, good governance, education, and economic prosperity.

“True political neutrality cannot mean the absence of political direction,” he said. “The North must develop a coherent agenda and the ACF must take the lead, supporting state governments and promoting accountability. Our challenges require robust regional solutions, not over-reliance on the federal government.”

Expressing concern over the region’s persistent food insecurity despite its vast arable land, Buratai described the situation as a “profound paradox.” He urged Northern leaders to make decisive investments in agriculture and warned against expending public resources on what he termed “intangible infrastructure” at the expense of programmes capable of transforming the region’s agricultural potential.

“With modern, large-scale farming and youth engagement in agribusiness, the North can conquer hunger, curb inflation, and become the nation’s true breadbasket,” he said. “We must transform our youth from a security challenge into the engine of our prosperity.”

The retired General challenged the ACF to serve as the “primary architect” of Northern Nigeria’s long-term development vision over the next quarter-century. He urged the Forum to champion transparency, mentor emerging leaders, and demand performance across regional institutions. He also hailed the launch of the ACF Endowment Fund as a major step toward strengthening the organisation’s capacity to drive sustainable transformation.

Buratai emphasised that Northern development cannot be pursued in isolation from national unity. He urged the ACF and Northern governors to create an environment where all Nigerians—particularly southerners—feel safe, welcome, and protected in the region.

“It is both a moral duty and an economic imperative,” he said. “We must assure all Nigerians that their legitimate businesses and security are non-negotiable. And we must expect the same reciprocal commitment from Southern states. This mutual assurance is the bedrock of true national integration.”

He further called on the North to consistently champion justice, fairness, and equitable representation at the national level, stressing that the region’s prosperity is inseparable from that of the entire country.

As he honoured the legacy of Sir Ahmadu Bello and other Northern founding fathers, Buratai urged the ACF to use its Silver Jubilee as a catalyst for renewed commitment to a just, secure, and united Nigeria