No fewer than 6,445 youths on Saturday, mounted Bima Hill to mark the 2025 Annual Cultural Festival of Hina Community in Yamaltu/Deba LGA, Gombe.

The hill-climbing activity was organised by the Hina Youth Forum as part of efforts to foster unity and to promote the community’s cultural heritage. The forum organised a series of activities spanning five days, including sporting events and cultural competitions among youths.

Bima Hill is 404 metres (1,325 feet) high. The hill ranks fourth among 23 hills in Gombe by elevation and is the first of two hills in Yamaltu/Deba. It is ranked 80th in Nigeria and second in Gombe.

Meanwhile, 317 residents of the Hina community benefited from free medical services organised as part of the festival’s activities.

Speaking after the climbing event, the forum’s chairman, Umar Musa, said the outreach was aimed at giving back to the community.

Mr Musa explained that the intervention formed part of the line-up of activities for the 2025 Hina Annual Festival and targeted mostly vulnerable persons.

According to him, beneficiaries were screened and treated for ailments such as hypertension, diabetes, ulcer, malaria, typhoid, infections, while eye screening was also conducted.

“Laboratory tests were carried out, drugs were provided, vital signs were taken, and health talks were delivered to improve nutrition, sanitation, and hygiene,” he said.

Mr Musa added that National Identity Number registration was also conducted for about 400 residents to comply with national guidelines.

“This is to ensure that residents of all ages obtain their NIN in line with national directives,” he said.

(NAN)