Abia State government says it will partner the Unubiko Foundation for the 2025 edition of the Ekponibro Festival.
The State Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Mr Matthew Ekwuruibe, who disclosed this during a press conference in Umuahia, described the Ekponibro Festival as an important cultural celebration and one that is a vital aspect of Igbo cultural heritage which must be preserved for future generations.
Mr Ekwuruibe while stressing the need to safeguard the Ekponibro Festival and other cultural events, explained that the festival, which takes place every April in Atan Abam, in Arochukwu Local Government Area, serves as a reminder of the traditions and practices passed down through generations.
The Commissioner noted that the festival, which holds both historical and cultural significance, essentially celebrates excellence, industry, and unity, also lauded Governor Alex Otti for prioritizing cultural preservation alongside other developmental initiatives.
He further described Governor Otti as a “round peg in a round hole” and commended his efforts in promoting various aspects of Igbo culture, including cultural festivals.
According to him, this year’s Atan Abam Ekponibro Festival, scheduled for April 29, will serve as an opportunity to celebrate the hard work and accomplishments of the community while fostering a sense of unity and pride.
In his speech earlier, the General Manager of Abia Newspaper and Publishing Corporation, Chief Jones Ike, while giving a historical overview of the Ekponibro Festival, explained that the festival is celebrated annually by sea merchants, marking the end of their trading year, typically before the rainy season begins.
“Originally celebrated by the Ibibios, the festival was later adopted by their Igbo neighbors, who incorporated elements of traditional Igbo culture into the celebration. Today, the people of Atan Abam are striving to maintain the festival’s cultural significance in its modern form while also infusing it with elements that reflect contemporary Igbo culture. Over time, the Abam people have modernized and adopted the festival to reflect their own unique way of life while honoring its roots.” he said.
Chief Ike also commended Chief James Ume (Jnr), the Ike Abam of Abam Onyerubi, for his keen interest in promoting the culture of his people and, more importantly, for sponsoring the festival through his charity organization, the Unubiko Foundation.
He noted that Chief Ume has consistently sponsored the Ekponibro Festival over the years, thereby attracting significant attention to it. He also commended Governor Alex Chioma Otti for not only giving strong attention to infrastructural development but also for promoting and preserving Igbo cultural heritage.
In their speeches, the Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Mr. Kalu Olaka Kalu and a committee member, Mr. Ben Ogbuzu, expressed their commitment to ensuring the continued success of the Ekponibro Festival.
They explained that the festival is non-demonic and encouraged everyone, especially the youth, to engage in meaningful ventures, adding that this year’s festival will feature awards on distinguished personalities who have made outstanding contributions to their community.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Mrs Ehiemere Chibuzor, Director of Culture, Mr. Chibuike Ukata and the Head of the Tourism Department, Lady Godwin Joy Dennis were present during the briefing.
