Thank you for joining us in Baltimore for the 2026 Annual MUTA Convention

The year 2026 represents an important moment for MUTA and for Tiv people everywhere. As we reflect on the challenges facing our communities at home and the responsibilities of those of us in the diaspora, one truth remains clear: our strength has always come from our shared identity, collective responsibility, resilience, and willingness to stand together. This year calls us to move beyond concern and reflection toward coordinated action that strengthens our people, protects our heritage, and prepares the next generation for the future.

The 2026 theme, STRONGER TOGETHER: BRIDGING THE PAST, HEALING THE PRESENT, SHAPING THE FUTURE OF TIVLAND, is a call to unity and purposeful action. It challenges us to draw wisdom from our history, respond compassionately and strategically to the realities affecting Tiv communities today, and intentionally build a stronger future. For MUTA, this means preserving our culture, supporting vulnerable communities, strengthening education and healthcare, developing our youth, and mobilizing the expertise and resources of the diaspora in service to Tivland.

Why Stronger Together? 

Bridging the Past
Our history, language, traditions, values, and communal spirit remain the foundation of Tiv identity. Bridging the past means more than remembering where we come from; it means applying the wisdom of previous generations to today’s challenges while ensuring our children remain connected to their heritage. Cultural preservation must be intentional, especially in the diaspora, so that Tiv language, history, music, values, and traditions continue from one generation to the next.

Healing the Present
Tiv communities continue to face insecurity, displacement, destruction of homes and farms, interrupted education, hunger, trauma, and economic hardship. Healing requires more than temporary relief. It calls for humanitarian support, healthcare, education, advocacy, accountability, restoration, and coordinated efforts that help displaced families safely rebuild their lives and communities.

Shaping the Future
The future of Tivland depends on intentional investment in our youth. We must strengthen education, mentorship, leadership development, entrepreneurship, civic responsibility, and opportunities for meaningful service. Our young people must be equipped to thrive in a rapidly changing world while remaining grounded in their Tiv identity and values.

The Responsibility of the Diaspora
MUTA must continue to transform the skills, knowledge, and resources of its members into structured action. Our professionals in medicine, law, education, technology, agriculture, business, media, and public policy have the capacity to create meaningful impact. Through stronger partnerships, scholarships, healthcare initiatives, humanitarian support, advocacy, and cultural preservation, the diaspora can serve as a bridge between the needs of Tiv communities and the resources required to address them.

A Legacy of Unity and Service
Stronger Together is more than a convention theme; it is a commitment. It calls every Tiv son and daughter to choose collaboration over division, service over personal interest, and sustained action over temporary emotion. The legacy we leave will be measured by how well we preserve our culture, protect the vulnerable, educate our children, strengthen our institutions, and work together to build a future worthy of the generations that come after us.

St. Louis, Missouri, a major metropolitan area in the Midwest, is served by two (2) primary airports, offering convenient options for guests. Here are the key details for each airport:

1. St. Louis Lambert International Airport (airport code: STL): Commonly referred to as Lambert Airport, STL is the primary international airport serving the St. Louis metropolitan area. Located approximately 14 miles from the convention center (around a 20-minute drive), the airport is a major hub for domestic and limited international flights. The convention hotel operates a shuttle service from Lambert Airport to the hotel. Attendees are encouraged to use the airport’s ground transportation services, including shuttles, taxis, and ride-sharing options, for seamless access to the convention venue.
2. MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (airport code: BLV): MidAmerica Airport is a secondary airport located in Mascoutah, Illinois, about 30 miles east of downtown St. Louis (approximately a 40-minute drive). While it offers fewer commercial flight options, it is known for its convenience and smaller crowds. Various ground transportation options, including rental cars and ride-sharing services, are available for attendees arriving at MidAmerica Airport.