By Cyril Mbah, Abuja
After a ten-year break, the Igbo community in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has resolved to revive the annual Igbo Day celebration. The cultural event, which once served as a unifying force among Igbos in the territory, is being repositioned to showcase the rich customs and traditions of the southeastern people and foster unity among previously divided groups.
The decision to revive Igbo Day was reached during the maiden edition of the Igbo Gadigide Cultural Festival held at the Universal Basic Education (UBE) Grounds in Old Kutunku, Gwagwalada, one of the six area councils in the FCT. The event marked a historic moment as leaders and members from rival factions within the Igbo community came together in peace and camaraderie.
Speaking at the event, Chief (Mrs.) Princess Tobechukwu Okaforocha, the spokesperson and convener, emphasized the importance of cultural revival among youths. She said the festival was designed to encourage young people and families to embrace their roots by speaking the Igbo language, dressing in traditional attire, and appreciating the values of their heritage.
Evangelist Okaforocha noted that the initiative received overwhelming support from Igbos in Nigeria and the diaspora, many of whom contributed both financially and morally to the success of the programme.
Elder Itchie Onwuka Dibia, a respected community leader from Old Kutunku, echoed similar sentiments. He stressed the urgent need for the Igbo people to protect their culture and language from the growing influence of Western civilization. He pledged full support for the resumption of Igbo Day in the FCT.
The festival featured a variety of cultural competitions, including kolanut breaking, cooking, traditional dancing, and a cultural quiz. Winners were rewarded with cash prizes and gift items.
Highlights of the competition results include:
- Kolanut Breaking:
1st – Okwuma Joshua Chibuike
2nd – Okechukwu David Olisaeloka
3rd – Odika Oluebube Anthony - Cooking Competition:
1st – Obiakor Susan Oluebubechukwu
2nd – Anonye Angela Chinecherem
3rd – Mba Loveth Ukamaka - Dancing Competition:
1st – Nwaezeagu Vanessa-Vivian Chimaobi
2nd – Okike Uchechukwu Rosemary
3rd – Oraekeyi Nnenna
4th – Ogbu Precious Okechi & Obiechina Chinecherem - Cultural Quiz:
1st – Nworah Favour
2nd – Dike Joy Chiamaka
3rd – Ugwuoke Chisom Divine
4th – Nworah Chinazaekpere
5th – Chukwudi Chisom Favour
With renewed passion and a commitment to cultural preservation, the Igbo community in Abuja is set to make the return of Igbo Day a memorable and unifying annual tradition.