LOKOJA CLUB 1901: BRITISH COLONIAL LEGACY IN LOKOJA, NIGERIA
Oladimeji Adewale Shemfe
Department of History and International Studies,
Federal University Lokoja, Lokoja, Nigeria
&
Agbonika Ojali Peace
Department of History and International Studies,
Federal University Lokoja, Lord, Nigeria
Abstract
Looking at the spectrum of Lokoja history from the precolonial, colonial and post-colonial eras, we can deduce that one of the major reasons for the rise and growth of Lokoja town as well as the reason for the presence of British administrators was as a result of its strategic location. The presence of the river Niger played important role in the economic growth and socio-cultural development of the early aborigines of Lokoja and those who later migrated and settled in the area. The location of Lokoja town at the confluence of rivers Niger and Benue as well as the natural hill called mount Patti was one of the reasons the British Administrators settled at Lokoja, as the first British settlement in Northern Nigeria. Club 1901 was one of the British Colonial legacies in Lokoja town during this period under study. Thus, the story of Club 1901 can never be complete without making references to the presence of British Colonial masters in the later part of the 19th and early 20th centuries in Nigeria and most especially in Lokoja. This work sets to elaborate the roles of Lord Frederick Lugard in the establishment of Club 1901. Equally, it will examine the roles of Club 1901 as a form of relaxation, recreation, and entertainment. This work aims at examining the evolution of Club1901, its roles, and its impact on Lokoja Town, as well as its challenges and possible solutions. The paper also adopts basically, primary and secondary sources of data collection such as Textbooks written by scholars and members of Club1901, Club Annual Magazine, Internet Sources, and Oral interview which bothers on the subject matter.
Keywords: Lokoja, Club 1901, Colonial administration, Leisure, Relaxation, and Entertainment.
Introduction
In 1894 Lugard visited West Africa for the first time. Employed by the Royal Niger Company, he led an expedition to forestall a French effort to establish a foothold in the lower Niger River. After a brief tour to Bechuanaland for the British West Charter Land Company, he returned to the Niger in 1897 as commissioner for the hinterland of Nigeria and commander of the West African Frontier Force, a military contingent designed to aid the Royal Niger Company in defending its territorial claims. Hence, when the Charter of the Royal Niger Company was revoked in 1900, the British government assumed administrative responsibility for the former territories of the company, and Lugard became the high commissioner for Northern Nigeria. This further explains the continuity status strategic contributions of Britain and her control in Nigeria.1
However, the British occupation of Nigeria brought along with it so many developments. As part of the need to meet the recreation needs of the colonialists, the British Administration established Club 1901 under the guidance of Lord Frederick Lugard, the then Governor of British administration in Northern Nigeria. The Club over the years has contributed immensely to the growth and development of Lokoja town and Nigeria at large. Before this period the people of Lokoja had little or no idea of what the meaning and duties of a Club are, they see a club as a place where irresponsible people are gathered, while others see the club as a dean of drug addicts, drunkards, and other social vices.2 But with the presence of Club 1901, people’s perspectives changed toward the club, as people now see Club 1901 as a tourist attraction site, while others see it as a place that encourages recreation, entertainment, relaxation as well as sports. This has made Club 1901 an agent of the Civilization of Lokoja peoples and beyond.
The town known today as Lokoja is central to Nigeria, this geographical advantage and navigable rivers made it possible for it to be the first administrative headquarters of British Northern Nigeria. The British and indeed other European are known for hard work and relaxation: so, leisure is an important aspect of life to them, hence the establishment of the Club. The Club is located at the Club and clement weather decide to locate the club on a beautiful plain ground in between the historic House, Mount Patti a road, G.R.A, Lokoja, Kogi State. It is the first of such clubs in Northern Nigeria which was proud to have had senior colonial civil servants as members: The club is, the mother of all clubs in Northern Nigeria.3The British Colonialists, conscious of the need for security, descent environment, mount Patti where Lord Lugard Guest house was located and Lugard Residency, all these within the Government Reserved Area designed, built and maintained by the British Colonialist. During the colonial era, high regard was accorded to things, places, and events that were influenced and controlled by the Colonialists. No wonder, it was an ideal place for relaxation after a hard day’s job.4
The original architectural design and layout were drawn by the British officers themselves. It was further developed after the colonialists handed it over to Nigeria’s government after independence. Perhaps, the surrounding residential houses developed and the Mobile Police barracks were strategically placed opposite the Club for the same security essence. The strategic location of Club 1901 makes it comfortable for staff of the former Post and Telecommunication), the Court, Catering Rest House, PoliceHeadquarters, etc. club members to access the Club after a hard day work. The road linking the club is the one linking the Lugard Residency5.
History and the Structure of Lokoja Club 1901
The growth and development of Club 1901 are not without course, we have aforementioned that the quest for recreation, relaxation, and entertainment was what propped the colonial officer to develop Club 1901 in Lokoja town. According to Haward, J, Pedraza in the book Borio-boola Gha, a European known as Dicken who was a leading antagonist of the African crusaders, gave the name ‘Borrioboola-Gha to the settlement that was later to be known today as Lokoja.6 He opined in the aforementioned book that the voyage of the Lander brother down the Niger in 1830 and their solution to the age-long puzzle as to the exit of the Niger was the prerequisite for the British penetration into the interior. On their way down they had passed at sunrise on Monday 25 October is the confluence of the two great River knows today as River Niger and Benue.6
Equally, A.D Ali (Ed) Lokoja Boat Rigatta: A symbol of Unity and Transportation to the people of Lokoja 1750-2017”. in the Journal of Transport of History: also supported that Lokoja is a significant town that sprang up as a cosmopolitan settlement on the confluence of the River Niger and Benue, long before the Europeans saw the famous River Niger. It was also the location of Lokoja on the bank of the river Niger that brought it to the international limelight. Therefore, the location of Lokoja was central and strategic for Lord Lugard and other British colonial administrators to establish a settlement in Lokoja for the effective administration of what was known then as Northern Nigeria.7 Therefore, we must bear in mind that it was the presence of the British colonial administrator such as the immense role of Lord Lugard that necessitated the birth and growth of Club1901 during the period under study. Club 1901 as the name suggest was founded as an elite social club in 1901 by the British colonialists. Lokoja is central to Nigeria today as its first administrative headquarters was Lokoja. The British colonialists are known for hard work and so, recreation and leisure relations were important aspects of life to them, hence the establishment of the club: In fact, Club1901 is one of the first clubs in Nigeria, long before amalgamation and independence.8
The consciousness of the need for security, descent environment, and climate influenced the location of the club on a beautiful plain ground in between the historic Mount Patti where Lord Lugard’s guest house was located and Lugard residency. All these within the government reserved area designed, built, and maintained by the colonialist. Therefore, during this period under study, high regard was accorded to things like; places and events that were initiated, influenced, and controlled by the British Officials. No wonder, it was an ideal place for relaxation after a hard day’s job. Perhaps, the club developed from being a colonial restricted infrastructure, later a tourist attraction site, as well as a relaxation and recreation center for its members and registered guests. Therefore, this has contributed, immensely to the development of Lokoja, thereby making it a cosmopolitan town during the 20th century.9 The Club 1901 was further developed after the colonial masters had handed it over to the nation after independence in 1960 and became famous after the creation of Kogi state and its capital situated in Lokoja town in 1991.
The Structure of Club 1901 Club 1901 of Lokoja has a well-designed administrative structure for the smooth administration of the club. The structure includes the patron, executive council, and membership viz:
Patron: The Executive Governor of the State at any particular time shall be the Grand Patron of the Club. Other patrons shall be appointed by the executive’s council and shall cease to be patrons at the expiration of the executive that appointed them. Having said that, it must be stated that Club 1901 still maintains its high regard for moral and traditional values as it would also document exceptional leaders who had contributed positively to the growth and development of Club 1901. However: the record of the previous British colonial members and their president is not available. Hence, Dr. S.I Abdullahi was said to be the first indigenous patron of Club 1901, immediately after the departure of the British colonial members. Followed by the late Mr. Mark Omaidu, then was Prof. T.A Umoru, Com. Oshagbemi Omoawo, and Alhaji. Kashim Obosi, then Hon, Okechukwu Umel, Barrister Sam Akoji, Alhaji Mustapha Allah-de was followed by Late, Mr. Bernard Ojumu, Chief Abbas Mahmud was followed by Engr. Stephen Emmanuel, then was Mr, Joseph Oshabgemi who later handed over to Rt. Hon. Prince Matthew Kolawole is the present Patron, while His Excellency, Yahaya Adoza Bello, the present Executive Governor of Kogi State presides as the Grand Patron of Club 1901.10
Executive Council: The management of the Club is entrusted to the Executive committee, subject to any decision taken at the General meeting. The Executive Committee’s power hereunder includes the appointment of and control over any salaried officer and paid staff of the club as the terms and conditions of service of those officials and staff permit.11Therefore, the executive council is the highest authority in the day-to-day administration of the Club. It shall consist of all Executive Officers of the Club, the council comprise of the following officers who are elected at a General meeting. First, the President, Vice President, General Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Treasurer, Financial Secretary, Public Relations Officer, Sports Secretary, Social Secretary, the Lady House Member, the Civil Secretary, and finally, the Internal Auditor.
Membership : In the membership drive of Club 1901, any aspiring individual would only need to meet certain criteria. He would present two existing members from the club as guaranteed by the people mentioned above that the person is of high morality and integrity. To be a potential member, the person submits the entry form with a token of twenty-five thousand naira only (N25, 000.00) of which an interested candidate will be called for a formal oral interview session. It must be noted that the Club still maintains its high regard for moral and traditional values.12
In an interview with Mr. Marcus Ogbaje the present General Secretary of the club, he explained that “Club 1901 is a socio-cultural organization established primarily to protect and promote the interest of its members in all spheres of life. To make where necessary, useful contribution (that must be non-political) to the development of Kogi State and Nigeria”13. Membership to the Club is by invitation or inquiry. Prospective members will be invited to meet with a representative. They will be shown around the house and the rules will be discussed by the Committee. Once payment has been processed, membership will be issued to the aspiring member with a copy of the Club rules. Secondly, a membership application must be on forms provided by the Club for that purpose, and submitting from the online platform is therefore in agreement with these rules. According to the constitution of the Club,” The Club 1901 comprises of the following classes of members which are: Full members, honorary members, Life members, junior members. Hence, the criteria for membership are as follows;
Full Members: Full members comprise interesting personalities, residents within Lokoja, and environs who must be 21 years of age and above. Secondly, any married woman whose husband is not a member of the Club shall apply through the normal process for membership with the husband’s approval.
Honorary Members: The Executive Committee may, at its discretion, propose for admission on honorary members at a general meeting and a majority of full members present may elect as an honorary member, any person who has rendered exceptional service to the club or distinguished himself or herself in any National service. Such names of persons, for which there is no limitation in number, shall be placed in a prominent position within the Club.
Life Members: Life members shall be persons who have rendered very useful services to the club, recommended by the Club Executive Committee, and accepted by the full house for such an honor. Their names and photographs will be displayed in one corner of the Club.
Junior Members: A junior member is a person between the age of 12 and 20 years whose parents are full members of the Club. Hence, children of members who are under the age of 12 years are eligible to use the facilities of the Club provided they are accompanied by a member.14
Rule and Regulations Club1901
Despite that Club 1901 is a Social Club, there are rules and regulations and bye-laws guiding the conduct of members. The mutual enjoyment of the Club by all of its members is central to the Club’s existence. The philosophy behind the Law of the Club is to make every member conform to the norms and values, high standards, and expectations of the Club for maximum pleasure and leisure. This rule was written in simple language for easy comprehension and adherence by all members. There had been no major friction or infraction because members are highly disciplined, mature, and morally above board.15
Nevertheless, they conform and interact with dignity and decorum. The Club is gender sensitive. It has written respect for both genders, and no discrimination based on sex, status, or age. Ideas flow freely irrespective of individual background, status or wealth. No wonder, the Club continues to enjoy increasing patronage. Thus, one of the colonial legacies, of the Club is the presence of the furniture used as Billiard or Snooker Talker. It is ancient furniture that demonstrates a typically Victorian fashion and tradition. This was the pride of British civilization. The shape, size, and design of the furniture are as involved as its winsome and appealing appearance. Therefore, it is a good remembrance of the ancient civilization of the British that was brought to this part of Africa.
On arrival, members must present their membership card if requested to do so. As such their names and signature would be registered on the membership book and board. Thirdly, members who through actions contravene the Code of Conduct set out in the Club Rules will be liable to have their membership terminated and possibly forfeit the annual subscription in whole or in part. Also, members shall abide by the Rules and Regulations set out and stated by the Proprietor and management of the Club. Any member failing to adhere to the Club rules shall have their membership terminated without delay.16 Therefore, all decisions are final.
Furthermore, each member shall advise the Club and its management of any change of address or relevant information. Only members are permitted to open a tab at the bar and they do this only on presentation of their LOKOCLUB1901 membership card. In addition, Guests are not permitted to run tabs on the bar, however, a bill may be settled on departure by members or their guests. An additional 20% will be added to the bill if it is not settled on the day of the visit. With the conduct and use of facilities/Security; all devices must be on SILENT at all times. The nightclub or private venues are not applicable. Each member and their guest shall observe the rules and codes of conduct set out by the Club. Secondly, members and their guests shall take full responsibility for the security and safety of their belongings and property. As such, each member and guest agree that the proprietor will not be liable for any belonging or property or be liable for claims or expenses resulting in loss or damage to the member’s or guest’s property. Thirdly, the proprietor or president reserves the right to refuse admission to or eject members or their guests as she/ her deems fit. Thus, members shall observe such rules and obligations concerning bookings of facilities or services as the Proprietor or president may from time to time stipulate.
Equally, no member shall remove, damage, or destroy any artwork, sports facilities, item of furniture, or any other articles or belongings to the Club. If a member or their guest causes the loss, damage, or destruction of any such property as described, the member shall bear full responsibility and will be charged the applicable cost.17Members are advised that CCTV cameras will be used in various parts of the Club Premises. Violence will not be tolerated, no arm wrestling, no shouting, conduct yourself with decorum, Treat the Club’s staff with respect, respect your Club and Respect other members, every member is responsible for the actions and behavior of their guests, Dress decently, Drug taking is not be tolerated.
In line with the dress code, Club 1901 encourages individuality and fabulous party dressing. This implies that the Club’s Dress Code does not wish to be binding or overly prescriptive, however, members and their guests are dressed for the occasion and are respectful in their choice of attire. Equally, guests are admitted at the discretion of the Club and its management and must be accompanied by a member at all times. Members are responsible for ensuring that their guests are aware of all Club rules and codes of conduct during their time in the Club and upon leaving the club premises. Nevertheless, members must not leave before any of their guests. If your guests are likely to arrive before you, please notify reception in advance. Again, groups must comprise men and women. Thus, no guest under the age of 18 will be allowed entry into the Club unless by prior arrangement.18
Socio-economic and political impact of Lokoja Club1901
Joseph Guzman explains that the Middle and Upper-class African Americans historically formed autonomous social organizations such as Black Club, geared toward racial uplift, status enhancement, and ultimately the construction of a positive collective Black identity. This is to create political and socio-economic racial solidarity and a sense of belonging among members of the Black Club. So far so good Club 1901 from its inception has played an immense role to ensure socio-economic as well as political benefit in Lokoja town and Nigeria. In other to achieve penetrating research in this study we shall give a detailed discussion of its roles in the various sectors
Socio-Economic Impact
It would be impartial to examine the socio-economic impact of Club 1901 without the three concepts known as Entertainment, Recreation, Relaxation as well as Sport, and Tourism. To the Journal of Management and Sustainability at the University of Jordan Ancient Greece and Rome were the birthplace of many sorts of recreational, leisure, and sports that influenced the modern understanding of social entertainment in various countries in the world. The Greek approach to leisure and play witnessed a gradual transition. In the beginning, all citizens were expected to participate in sports and games, and the Olympic Games were restricted to free-born Greeks only.19
According to the journal of Tourism and Hospitality Management, the University of Rijeka Croatia submits large-scale sports and entertainment events to help attract a wide range of attendees and influence resulting in various implications for the host community. Chalip and Fairley (2016) explain that Club and its variety attract visitors who will stay and spend some money before, during, and after any entertainment and recreational events as well as investors who will enter certain business ventures, which are a key impact on generating socio-economic benefits by Club. This implies that Club 1901 creates an atmosphere for different people.20 In an interview with Dr. Jeremiah Ayok, who is an active member of Club 1901, the advantages of the Club’s activities are associated with long-term benefits for both members and visitors. As such, physical activity in the Club 1901 helped in tackling most chronic diseases, such as; high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular osteoarthritis, overweight age long diseases, etc. as such the Club is concerned with the wellbeing of its members and visitors.
Over the years, like any other existing club, Club 190 has proved its worth not only as an agent of socialization, leisure, and entertainment but has unraveled various reasons for the growth and development of Lokoja, which became a metropolitan city immediately after the creation of Kogi State in 1991. Club 1901 is relevant to the Sports development of Nigeria, Kogi, and neighboring states. The Club is reputed to have produced international tennis players like Samuel Timothy, Mr. Adoga, all of them are old members of the Club, others are Badminton and Tennis players like Moses Abbas Mohammed Amas and of course table tennis player wizards like Mr, Samuel alias Psalms3. Again, the Club has a total number of eight hundred and forty-five members (845). We are apt to state that the roles of Club 1901 in Lokoja cannot be overemphasized. As such, Club1901 has contributed in various ways to the development of society in terms of Education, Health, and Sports. Thus, in sports, there have been inter-club sports activities like DART, Badminton, Lawn Tennis, and Table Tennis which have been solely sponsored by the Club. This, therefore, cut across the state and even outside the State, Trophies, cash prizes, and other forms of encouragement to sport in the country were given.21
In an interview with Chief Felix Enemono, in the area of Education, the Club sponsored indigent children and offered a scholarship to brilliant students in the past. It has also organized lectures on health by inviting professionals to give a talk on certain illnesses, prevention, control, and cure, especially HIV/ AIDS. Furthermore, there has been an advocacy campaign to sensitize people on how to keep their environment clean, individual members of the Club who are in a position to assist in the reduction of unemployment have done so by employing members of the public in their private companies.22 Baba Ojonugwa also submits in an interview that in the area of entertainment and relaxation, Club 1901 has invited a series of musical artists all around the country to Lokoja town, to entertain the people, which has revealed the essence of Lokoja, not only as the first British Settlement in Northern Nigeria but also a home of recreation, entertainment, and tourism. Artists such as King Sunny Ade, Ike Dairo, Ebenezer Obey, the late Rasky Mono, and other influential personalities had played music in Lokoja town. Thus, this has spurred the people of Lokoja to venture into the entertainment industry.23
Meanwhile, they are other benefits of joining Club 1901. One may have the chance of meeting new people such as influential personalities, business tycoons, and others. Secondly, they tend to learn new skills. As such all members of the Club contribute to the group, regardless of whether or not the Club is causal or rigid, everyone has a job to do. Thus, there is always something to learn either from the sporting section, recreation, or entertainment. Thirdly, getting better at time management, the amount of time you commit to the Club varies with each group, but there is still time that you have to fit into your busy schedule. Between work, school, friends, family, and other commitments. Again, it helps gain experience that could help you in the future. Club 1901 allows its members to learn a new skill and improve their time management which is something that will help in the future. Finally, it improves confidence.24 this is very true because, the more a member practices his or her roles in the Club, the better they become. The more time a member spends in the Club, the more comfortable and confident one becomes, as there is no dull moment in Club 1901.
Political Impact of Lokoja Club 1901
The facts remain that Club1901 has played effective political roles in Lokoja and Kogi State. This is true. It has not just served as a place for social events but also accommodates various politically exposed persons who also used the club as the venue to discuss various political issues arising. No wonder the Grand Patron of Club 1901 is always the sitting governor of the state. Hence, Club 1901 in 2019 hosted various Nigerian and foreign political leaders during a visit to Kogi State. Below are some political impacts of Club 1901; First, it foster cooperation, unity, and understanding amongst its members, Promote and encourage service, leadership, and good citizenship, Contribute positively to the advancement and prosperity of Kogi State, Promote good community relations, family and cultural values among members in Lokoja and Diaspora, advanced and promoted the social, economic, educational, cultural, and civic and the general welfare of her members in the Diaspora, assisted and provided moral and financial support to her members during sickness, death or social activities, ensured her members are physically and emotionally fit, as various sporting exercise are put in place, created an atmosphere where members and visitors relaxed and untwined for important meetings where crucial political issues are discussed.25
Equally, Club 1901, serves the purpose for occasions among Club members, as leisure and entertainment are never left behind. Club 1901 therefore, has not only served the purpose of leisure and entertainment, but it has further transformed into a tourist center as visitors from Nigeria and the diaspora, journey from a different place to see the beauty of the British Colonial infrastructure which has lived up for many decades.
Challenges of Lokoja Club 1901
Over the years Club 1901 has been bedeviled with a series of limitations. Thus, these challenges range from insufficient funds, Inconsistent payment of dues by Club members, identification, lack of important facilities and activities, the problem of limited land space, security challenges, the problem of limited members, wrong perception, and misinterpretation of Club 1901. To corroborate this, we further interviewed Mr. Bami Laff as he stated the following challenges:
Lack of Funds: Club 1901 has experienced Insufficient funds to do some needful in terms of developing the Club. The major source of income of the Club is from dues from members which could hardly fuel the generators or even maintain the facilities, therefore, the Club depends at times on donations from Government and well-meaning individuals. This has hindered the development and efficiency of the Club.
Inconsistent payment of dues; we have earlier established that Club 1901 is not a business venture, as such, the Club depends solely on the weekly or Monthly dues from its member. Despite this, Club members still fail to comply with the payment due. Some members attributed this to a lack of payment of salaries from the State Government as the majority of Club members are Civil Servants.
Challenges of identifying Club members: As a result of the impact of Club 1901 in Lokoja, it has recorded a massive influx of members, most especially, during the period of independence of Nigeria in 1960 which followed the creation of Kogi State in 1991. Therefore, most members have not been regular in the Club.
Lack of more facilities and activities: There is no Club owned vehicle to carry out the day-to-day running of the Club like the purchase of drinks and some other vital assignments of the Club. Other sporting facilities are still lacking in the Club, such as a swimming pool, football pitch, and its facilities, accommodation for tourists, sectorial dressing room, Children playing equipment, etc.
The problem of limited land space: The Club also lacks sufficient packing space as there is always an increase in the membership drive of the Club. This has caused a hindrance in establishing more recreational spots such as a standard football pitch, a large swimming pool stand, and others. Owing to this backdrop Club 1901 found it difficult over the years to establish accommodation for visitors and tourists who saw Club 1901 not only as a recreational and entertainment but as well as a tourist center. Therefore, the need for expansion requires huge much funds.
The problem of inconsistency in attendance: Over the years the Club has recorded Membership but in the long run, most members failed to be consistent in meeting attendance and most members were often absent when important discussions and decisions were taken made. Thus, this to a very large extent hindered the Club from taking a quick decision and engaging in most activities or publicity.27
Conclusion
The above challenges are no insurmountable as they may seem to look. Through the following measures, the club can make headway in addressing some of these challenges. Government sponsorship: we have earlier revealed that club1901 is not just a government-owned infrastructure after independence, it is also a pearl of Tourism for people to come and see. As such the government should see the need to take responsibility for the Club’s growth. If successful, it would help generate revenue back to the government purse. This was evident in Obudu cattle ranch in Cross Rivers State, Yankari Game reserve in Bauchi State, Ikogosi waterfall in Ekiti State, and other tourist attraction sites.
Partnership and sponsorship from Private Investors and NGOs: The club should seek partnership with private investors and NGOs: this will indeed go a long way in the growth and development of Club1901. Again, just like the saying goes “Knowledge is Power”, as such the people should be educated about the need to participate in the growth club1901 as an agent of socialization which will further increase membership participation in the various club activities.
This paper has examined the history of Club 1901, Lokoja. The club which was a colonial creation has outlived colonialism and continues to contribute positively to the development of Lokoja and its people. The evidence presented in this work suggests that despite various challenges and limitations of the Club, it still performs its functions, and as such, it does not discriminate as it belongs to and welcomes the young, the aged, and every responsible people in Lokoja town from the period of its creation in 1901 up till now. It is no new, therefore, that Club 1901 has contributed immensely to the development of Lokoja town and her environs in terms of scholarship education, health care awareness, sport, youth employment, and above all, it still performs the role of an agent of socialization and civilization. Therefore, it is apt to state that this development has proven that Club 1901 like other social institutions, does not operate in a vacuum, as its activities are not secretive, not unethical, immoral, or uneducated but, recreating, innovative, entertaining, and above all it reaches out as an agent of socialization to the younger generation in Lokoja town and Kogi State.
Notes
1. A.D Ali,” Trade and Transport in the lower in Niger 1830-2011″:( Lagos Adenuga Concept, 2012) 10
2. J.E Asimi and S. Ibejigba, “Club1901 Leisure and Recreation in Lokoja’ in A.O Suberu and B.J Audu (Ed), History, Economic, Society of Lokoja, (Kaduna: NDA Publisher, 2019. 60-62
3. J.E Asimi and S. Ibejigba, “Club1901 Leisure and Recreation in Lokoja’ in A.O Suberu and B.J Audu (Ed), History, Economic, Society of Lokoja, (Kaduna: NDA Publisher, 2019. 60-63
4. H.J Pedraza, ‘The Story of Lokoja. The first British settlement of Nigeria, (London, Oxford, University Press) 1960. 12-15
5. H.J Pedraza, ‘The Story of Lokoja. The first British settlement of Nigeria, (London, Oxford, University Press) 1960. 12-15
6. H.J Pedraza, ‘The Story of Lokoja. The first British settlement of Nigeria, (London, Oxford, University Press) 1960. 12-15
7. A.D Ali, Lokoja Boat Rigatta: A symbol of Unity and Transportation to the People of Lokoja. 1750-2017. Journal of Transport History Vol 1, 2018, 1-3. 2020.
8. J.E Asimi and S. Ibejigba, “Club1901 Leisure and Recreation in Lokoja’ in A.O Suberu and B.J Audu (ED), History, Economic, Society of Lokoja, (Kaduna: NDA Publisher, 2019. 60-61
9. F. Cerin, C. Vardelanottee, E. Leslie, D. Meron, “Recreational facilities and Leisure time physical activity: An Analysis of moderator and self-efficacy as a mediator Health Psychol 2008: p 27.
10. J.E Asimi and S. Ibejigba, Club1901 Leisure and Recreation in Lokoja 63-65
11. Shemfe Oladimeji Adewale” Club 1901 and its Impact in Lokoja 1901-1991″ Unpublished B. A Project, Submitted to the Department of History and International Studies. Federal University Lokoja, 2021. pp. 8-10
12. J.E Asimi and S. Ibejigba, Club1901 Leisure and Recreation in Lokoja 62-65
13. Interview with Mr. Marcus Ogbaje, 54yrs, Civil Servant, Lokoja. 10\07\2020
14. J.E Asimi and S. Ibejigba, Club1901 Leisure and Recreation in Lokoja 62-65
15. J.E Asimi and S. Ibejigba, Club1901 Leisure and Recreation in Lokoja 62-65
16. Shemfe Oladimeji Adewale” Club 1901 and its Impact in Lokoja 1901-1991″ Unpublished B. A Project, Submitted to the Department of History and International Studies. Federal University Lokoja, 2021. pp 8-10
17. J. Tribe “The Economic of Recreation, Leisure, and Tourism” (4ed) Oxford England Elsevier, 2011). 22-30.
18. ACT Sport. Impact of Sport and Physical Recreation on the ACT: Executive Summary. Hackett: ACT. 2004. P 23
19. Amah Edwina, Joy Adanma, et al, Green Human Resource: Journal of Management and Sustainability in the Hospitality and Tourism, University of Toronto, Vol3, 2016, 1
20. H. Pechlanner, A. Zehrer, et al, Ranking of International Tourism and Hospitality: Journal of Travel Research, Vol2, 2019, p23-36
21. Interviewed Dr. Jeremiah Ayok, 53yrs, Lecturer, Lokoja. 09\07\2021
22. Interviewed Chief Felix Enemono, 75yrs, Business owner, Lokoja. 12\10\2021.
23. Interviewed Baba Ojonugwa, 46yrs, Musician and Actor, Lokoja. 12\10\2021.
24. Shemfe Oladimeji Adewale” Club 1901 and its Impact in Lokoja 1901-1991″. 80-82
25. J.E Asimi and S. Ibejigba, Club1901 Leisure and Recreation in Lokoja 61-63.
26. E Asimi and S. Ibejigba, ‘ Club1901 Leisure and Recreation in Lokoja’ 62-63.
27. Interview with Mr, Bami Laff, 27yrs, Comedian and Bar Attendant. Lokoja. 8\02\2021