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 parents especially women, to rejuvenate the teaching of tying of wrappers, hair scarf among others which is primary Igbo cultural practice that best shows the beauty of the region and reminded all that the feast is to celebrate hard working farmers, promoting agriculture and encouraging young people to engage themselves in legitimate businesses.
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.
