The Federal Government has formally endorsed the Leboku-In-Abuja 2025, the yearly New Yam Festival celebrated in Abuja by the Yakurr people of Cross River State.
Leboku is a new yam cultural extravaganza that spans over 28 days in the month of August, climaxing with a colourful carnival parade in Ugep, the headquarters of Yakurr Council area of Cross River State. In Abuja, a miniaturised version is held yearly tagged, ‘Leboku-In-Abuja’, to afford the Yakurr people and their friends’ resident in Abuja as well as all lovers of culture to eat, play, wine, dance, and hold intellectually stimulating talk shops around culture as a tool of unifying Nigeria.
In a letter signed by the Director General/CEO of the National Council for Arts and Culture, Obi Asika, he described the landmark cultural event, organised by Kedei Seh Umor-Otutu in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy and other esteemed partners, as “representing a significant stride in the promotion and preservation of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage”.
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According to the DG, “The Leboku festival, deeply rooted in the traditions of the Yakurr people of Cross River State, has long been a symbol of unity, celebration, and agricultural prosperity. Bringing this renowned festival to Abuja will provide a unique opportunity for cultural exchange, tourism development, and deeper appreciation of our diverse traditions. It aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and NCAC’s mandate to promote arts and culture as essential drivers of Nigeria’s creative economy.”
Asika commended the organisers for their vision in expanding the cultural footprint of Leboku and fostering inclusivity among Nigerians and the Diaspora, and encouraged all stakeholders to participate in making it a resounding success. “Please accept my esteemed regards and assurances of unwavering support in your efforts to elevate Nigeria’s cultural heritage,” Asika added.
Source: The Guardian
