By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
A philanthropist and Abuja-based businessman, Alhaji Zakari Abubakar Ola, has named his first son after his late father, Abubakar Ola.
The son was named Abubakar Sadiq Abubakar, reflecting his late father.
The naming ceremony took place on Thursday [Yesterday] at his New Layout residence in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital.
Zakari said he named the newly born baby after his late father because of the recognition and respect he had for the deceased.
The celebrant, whose philanthropic gesture cut across Lokoja local government area, promised to continue to champion the quest for better education and health for the poor in the society.
Speaking to newsmen in an interview shortly after the ceremony, the Gabi of Lokoja, Alhaji Sulaiman Baba Ali, who led other dignitaries to the naming ceremony prayed God to give the newly born baby sound health and for him to bring more blessings to the family and the state at large.
While describing children as special gift from God, Baba Ali urged parents to give special attention to the education and upbringing of their children to build an egalitarian society.
He lamented how some parents subjected and abandoned their children to street hocking and begging and called for collective efforts to end the menace.
The Gabi of Lokoja who described the bouncing baby as blessing, prayed God to give him good health, prosperity and make him grow to be good citizen in the society.
The naming ceremony which was conducted by Sheikh Aminu Muhammad Shaban, the Chief Imam of Lokoja featured special prayers for Hon. Sulaiman Baba Ali for his contribution toward the development of Lokoja and for assisting the youths to secure employments both at state and federal levels, the leaders, the state and the country at large.
The colourful event had in attendance member representing Lokoja/Kogi Federal Constituency, Hon. Danladi Sulaiman Aguye, member representing Lokoja 1 state Constituency, Hon. Shehu Tijani Bin Ebaiya, traditional title holders, top government officials, politicians among other dignitaries, just as praise singers had field days.
Below are some pictures captured at the event:
