The Executive Chairman of Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Timothy Nwachi, has described unity as the driving force of his administration, stressing that the celebrated Uwanna New Yam Festival was designed to strengthen peace, togetherness and economic opportunities for the people of the area.
Speaking during an interactive session with journalists at the colourful festival held a few days ago in Uwanna, Afikpo, Nwachi said his decision to harmonize the diverse traditions of the 11 autonomous communities into one carnival-like celebration was to foster inclusiveness and promote Afikpo’s rich cultural heritage.
“In governance, unity is the key. And in a community like ours, where we have clans with diverse cultures, the only way you can lead them well is to make everyone part of what we are doing,” he said.
Traditionally, the communities celebrate their New Yam Festivals on different days. But according to the council boss, a consensus has been reached to host a “grand finale” that will bring all the communities together annually for a mega carnival.
“At that event, each community will have the opportunity to showcase their dialect, heritage and cultural beliefs. That day will not just be about yam, but a tourism carnival that can attract the world to Afikpo,” Nwachi noted.
He further explained the symbolic decision to share uncooked yam to communities yet to mark their festival, ensuring they could partake in the ritual on their own days without violating tradition.
The chairman also revealed plans to leverage the state government’s ongoing development of the Ndibe Beach, popularly known as Uteki, to transform Afikpo into one of the country’s foremost tourism destinations.
“Once that place is properly developed, Afikpo will become one of the highest tourist centres in Nigeria,” he added.
The festival attracted dignitaries including the State Commissioner for Market Development and Parks, Prof. Nwogo Ajuka Obasi, and the State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), among others who commended the council boss for reviving a culture of peace, unity and progress through the event.
Highlights of the event was sharing of wrappers and cash gifts to women folks especially the windows, among other gift items to his people.
Victor Nwegede
