MEDA Project Manager turbaned as First Uwar Marayun Dass

By Samuel Luka

The Emir of Dass in Bauchi state, Alhaji Usman Billayaminu Uthman has turbaned the Project Manager of Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA), Mrs. Grace Fosen as the First Uwar Marayun Dass (Mother of the Orphans in Dass local government area.

The turbaning ceremony took place on Saturday 24th February, 2024 amidst visitors from within and outside the State who trooped into the ancient town of Dass to witness the event.

The Emir of Dass, Alhaji Usman Billayaminu Uthman while congratulating Mrs. Fosen shortly after being turbaned, said that that the honor is the least the Emirate could do to express its gratitude for the development the recipient has brought to the people of Dass Emirate, especially Women and other vulnerable target groups.

The Emir said that the newly turbaned Uwar Marayun Dass has in several times, demonstrated her love and passion in improving the economic status of the people through the Global Affairs Canada funded MEDA Nigeria WAY Project when she served as the Country Project Manager in Bauchi.

He said that during the life span of the MEDA Project, it has impacted positively on the lives of the people, assuring that the structures MEDA established are already being sustained and replicated in other communities within and outside the Emirate Council.

After the traditional horse ride by the Uwar Marayu, amidst beats of drums, trumpets and mini Durbar within the Town of Dass, Mrs. Fosen thanked the Emir for the honour, pledging her loyalty to the Emirate.

Mrs. Fosen also pledged to collaborate with organisations, groups and as well as well meaning Nigerians towards establishing a scholarship program specifically targeting Orphans in Dass Emirate

The First Uwar Marayun Dass said that the honour is not done to her alone but also to Global Affairs Canada, MEDA team, local partners and beneficiaries of the MEDA Nigeria WAY Project.

She also seized the opportunity of the grand occasion to thank the Dass Emirate Council and Bauchi State for supporting the MEDA Project Implementation.

The First Uwar Marayun Dass who has facilitated projects and programs that enhance economic empowerment and development especially for women, is an indigene of Taraba State who holds a degree in Agricultural Economics and Masters Degree in Business Administration.