Bulgarian envoy, others attend Sallah durbar in Katsina

The Bulgarian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Yanko Yordanov, joined hundreds of others at the Sallah durbar held at the Old Government House in Katsina. 

The event, known as Hawan Bariki in Katsina tradition, is held on the second day of Sallah, where the emir visits the governor at the Old Government House, a custom dating back to colonial times.

During the Hawan Bariki durbar, Mr Yordanov expressed his honour at witnessing Katsina State’s rich cultural heritage and tradition, which attracts tourists worldwide. 

He remarked on the similarities between the colourful performances in Katsina and those in Bulgaria, praising the beautiful arrangements.

The presence of Ambassador Yordanov and other foreign visitors underscores the international interest in Katsina’s durbar festival. 

The festival features district heads and traditional title holders parading in a well-coordinated manner through major streets in Katsina and Daura.

The governor, Dr Dikko Radda, reassured Ambassador Yordanov and other tourists about their safety during such visits and pledged support for durbar festivals in Katsina and Daura. 

He emphasised the state government’s commitment to investing in tourism, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment, highlighting the importance of these sectors for the state’s development.