Abia State Commissioner for Arts, Culture and creative economy Dr Matthew Ekwuribe has called on stakeholders in the state to join the administration of Governor Alex Otti in an effort towards preserving and promoting the tradition and rich cultural heritage of the State which is on the verge of extinction.
Dr Ekwuribe who made the call while briefing journalists on preparations for the 2025 Ikeji Aro Festival alongside members of the Committee and Nzuko Aro Council, in his office, at Nnamdi Azikiwe Secretariat Umuahia, commended Governor Otti for his remarkable strides in preserving Abia’s cultural heritage and transforming the state into a preferred destination for tourists.
The Commissioner while describing the Governor’s vision as a bold step towards repositioning Abia on the global tourism map, noted that the administration’s commitment to culture and creativity is rekindling pride in the state’s traditions while creating opportunities for economic growth.
He emphasized the need for collective responsibility in supporting the government’s efforts to enhance the tourism sector and called on stakeholders, cultural custodians, and the general public to work together in sustaining and showcasing Abia’s rich heritage.
On the 2025 Ikeji Aro festival, Mr Ekwuribe assured of his ministry’s continued collaboration with relevant bodies, and specifically invited all to the 2025 Ikeji Aro Festival, a landmark event being jointly organized by his ministry and the Nzuko Aro Council, which promises to be a vibrant celebration of tradition, unity, and cultural pride.
“The grand finale of the Aro Ikeji festival will be held on 26th September after weeklong activities in Arochukwu.” he stated.
The Commissioner maintained that the only way to preserve one’s culture is by celebrating the same, adding that the Ministry has commenced beautification projects in flashpoint areas across the State, including the artistic enhancement of FMC fence in Umuahia.
On his part, the President General of Nzuko Aro, Sir Nnadozie Udensi, noted that the Aro Ike-ji festival has been one of the oldest annual festivals in Aro Kindom which urshers in the harvest year and commended the present administration for projecting Aro culture and the Igbo language for posterity.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the UNESCO Listing Committee on Ikeji Aro Festival, Mazi Achilivu Okoroafor, while highlighting the significance and activities of the 17 days Ikeji festival, described the annual Ikeji Aro festival as a journey of covenant, thanksgiving, unity, and celebration.
