Anambra celebrates Iri ji festival as Governor Soludo says cultural fiesta signposts hardwork

The people of Anambra State celebrated the Iri ji festival, also known as the new yam festival, on Sunday at the Alex Ekwueme square in Awka. The event, which was the first of its kind in the state, was attended by thousands of indigenes from the 21 local government areas of the state.

The Iri ji festival is an annual cultural celebration that marks the end of the farming season and the beginning of a new harvest. It is a time to thank God for His blessings and to share the new yam with family and friends.

The governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, was the chief guest at the occasion. He delivered a speech in which he praised the culture and values of the Igbo people, saying that they are signposts of hardwork and resilience.

He said, “For the first time, we marked the iri ji festival as a State. Ndi Anambra from the 21 local government areas gathered at the Alex Ekwueme square to celebrate this momentous event.

“The celebration brings to the forefront our culture and collective identity, the unity and liveliness of our people, all in honor of our rich Igbo heritage.

“The Iri ji festival transcends mere spectacle; it is a heartfelt celebration of our core essence, our principles and our shared spirit. It stands as a beacon of the enduring principles of hardwork and resilience, a legacy handed down through generations.

“I express my profound appreciation to our state and local government cultural troupes. Their passionate and skilled performances have seized our hearts, igniting inspiration within us all.

“I reiterate my unwavering commitment to the promotion and preservation of our culture and values. We will persist in cultivating an inclusive society, ensuring no one is left behind, with kindness and understanding at the core of our endeavors. Our proactive measures in education, healthcare, youth development and social welfare are reflective of this earnest commitment.

“As we look forward, I am imbued with a sense of hope and optimism for what lies ahead. I envision an Anambra State where our culture flourishes, where our people succeed and where our unity is steadfast and unwavering.”