- Appreciates God’s Goodness And Mercy
The Traditional Prime Minister of Abagana, Onowu Abagana, Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze, over the weekend celebrated the 2021 Iwa Ji Festival as a way of showcasing, promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage.
Speaking on the occasion, , Dr Anakwenze, a US-based Medical practitioner, said Yam is being celebrated because it is regarded as the King of Crops.
He noted that as part of efforts to ensure sustenance of their cultural heritage, Ndi Igbo in the US have established an Igbo Village, with schools that focus on all aspects of Igbo culture and values including the New Yam Festival.
Dr. Anakwenze, who is also the President of Igbo World Assembly, and the Pioneer President of ASA U.S. advised all to sustain Igbo traditional wears, and reminded all that the feast is to celebrate hard working farmers, promote agriculture and encourage the young ones to engage themselves in legitimate businesses.
Onowu Abagana thanked God for His goodness and Mercy, and also appreciated all who graced the occasion and added glamour to the event.
In their separate speeches, the member representing Njikoka Two in the State Assembly, Honourable Pete Ibida, and Chief Dr Flora Ilonzo, extolled Dr Nwachukwu Anakwenze for always having the interest of the people at heart.
A Nollywood Actor and Producer, Mr. Ugezu J Ugezu, said that every Onye Igbo should emulate Dr Anakwenze and thrive to promote and tell the positive stories of Igbo culture and tradition.
He emphasized that it was high time Producers in Nollywood also began to showcase the culture, tradition, values, norms and language of Ndị Igbo.
Traditional Prime Ministers known as “Ndị Onowu” from across the state were also present in solidarity with one of their own, while other groups and individuals including in-laws, Umuwandiana as well as friends and well-wishers from within and outside the state and country, also witnessed the Iwa Ji Festival by the Abagana Prime Minister Dr. Anakwenze.
Some of the groups later made presentations to the host, Dr Anakwenze in solidarity and appreciation for his outstanding contributions to humanity.
Highlights of the event include the Symbol Cutting and Eating of Yam, Egwu Uhie by the celebrant, presentations of gifts and masquerade displays.
