By Moses Okorie
The chairman, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Honourable Christopher Zakka Maikalangu has urged Igbo people living in Abuja to maintain their cultural heritage, and promises to all support them in doing so.
The chairman stated this during the 2025 edition of new yam festival (iri ji) of the Ndi-Igbo held at Lugbe area of AMAC, highlighting the significance of “Iri Ji” as a cultural celebration of the harvest season and yam abundance.
Maikalangu, supported by the House of Representatives Member of AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency at the 9th Assembly, Hon. Micah Jiba, Supervisory Councillor Education, Hon. Obi Arinze and a major stakeholder of AMAC APC Igbo Forum, Chief Obi Rex, noted that the New Yam Festival is a significant event that promotes unity, cultural heritage, and gratitude for the harvest.
“Yam is a staple crop in Igboland, symbolising fertility, prosperity, and hard work. The festival is a celebration of agricultural abundance, showcasing the community’s hard work and dedication to farming. By recognising the importance of yam in Igbo culture, the need to support local farmers and promote agricultural development”, Hon. Maikalangu highlighted.
The festival featured traditional dances, music, and feasting, showcasing the community’s unity and cultural identity.
The event provided a platform for community members to come together, share ideas, and strengthen social bonds.