Francis Sadhere
Emir of Katsina, His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr) Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, has turbaned the Chairman of the Delta Board of Internal Revenue, (DBIR) Hon. Joel-OnowakpoThomas with a traditional title of the Maijidadin Kaigam of Katsina.
Representative of the Emir, Alhaji Kabir Muhammed Mashi, the Kaigama of Katsina State who conferred the traditional title on Hon. Joel-Onowakpo at the ceremony held at a gala night in Protea Hotel, Warri, Delta State, noted that the decision to give him the title was taken after ‘’an extensive consultation’’.
Alhaji Mashi added that the title was a demonstration of the Emir’s detribalised posture and promotion of unity amongst the diverse people of Nigeria and the recipient’s outstanding performance.
‘’ It is a mark of your recognition of your outstanding contributions to the development of taxation in the country, both at the state and national levels’’, Mashi, Kaigama Katsina, said.
He advised the Delta Board of Internal Revenue Boss to uphold and promote the tradition and cultural heritage of the Katsina Emirate Council, adding that the honour should serve as a motivation for Hon. Joel-Onowakpo to do more for the advancement of tax administration in the country.
While responding, the recipient, Ononwakpo-Thomas, expressed surprise at the title, noting that he had always shied away from accepting traditional titles.
‘’ I am surprised because this was not conceived, it was not something I planned for or was anticipating as a matter of fact’’, he said.
He disclosed that the only time he ever met with the Emir of Katsina was when he accompanied Mashi, the Joint Tax Board Chairman, when he (Mashi) was recognised by the Emir for his service to the nation.
‘’ It all started as a joke because it was not conceived like I said. He sent a text to me a few weeks ago and he said that the Emir of Katsina has approved a chieftaincy title as Majidadin of Kaigama Kingdom in Katsina.
‘’ It’s a surprise, but like everything in life, we take it and see what we can do with it, but honestly if it was something I thought of, it would be a different thing’’, a shocked Hon. Joel-Onowakpo.
