Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has charged traditional rulers and other stakeholders to sustain the preservation and promotion of the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people, describing culture as a vital instrument for strengthening unity, identity and development.
Governor Otti gave the charge at the New Yam Festival of the traditional ruler of Ataigbo Ukwu Umuzomgbo Ihechiowa in Arochukwu Local Government Area and Chairman, Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Sir Linus Nto Mbah.
The Governor, represented by his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, said the annual celebration was not only an opportunity to thank God for a bountiful harvest but also a platform for showcasing the cultural values, traditions and communal bonds that have sustained the Igbo people over the years.
While commending Eze Nto Mbah for his efforts in preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Ndi Igbo, Governor Otti disclosed that his administration would continue to support initiatives that promote Abia’s cultural identity, tourism and creative economy.
The State Chief Executive further stressed the importance of traditional institutions in maintaining peace, unity and social cohesion in communities, adding that his administration remains committed to working with traditional rulers and other stakeholders to advance the development of the state.
In his address, the Chairman of the occasion, Chief Joe Eze Aro, described the New Yam Festival as a significant cultural event that brings the people together to celebrate the fruits of their labour and express gratitude to God for a successful farming season.
Chief Eze Aro urged the people to continue to uphold the values of love, unity, communal service and respect for their cultural heritage, noting that such values remains essential to the growth and progress of the society.
In his speech, the traditional ruler of Ataigbo Ukwu Umuzomgbo Ihechiowa in Arochukwu LGA and Chairman, Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Sir Linus Nto Mbah, said the celebration was organised to appreciate God for the gift of a bountiful harvest, as well as to preserve and transmit the cultural heritage of the people to succeeding generations.
Eze Nto Mbah further commended Governor Otti for what he described as his developmental strides across the state, particularly in infrastructure, education, healthcare and other critical sectors, while appreciating members of his community and other guests for their support and participation in the festival.
The ceremony which featured colourful cultural displays, the cutting and blessing of the new yam, goodwill messages and other traditional activities, also attracted the presence of the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, traditional rulers from within and outside the state, government officials, community leaders and other distinguished personalities.
