By George Ozalla
The Iwa-ji New Yam Festival is a revered tradition in Umueri Ancient Kingdom and indeed entire Igboland, celebrated with great fanfare and spiritual significance. On Saturday, September 6, 2025, His Royal Majesty Igwe Sir (Dr) Ben Izukwukwu Emeka JP, Oke-ebo Umueri II Ancient Kingdom, will host this momentous occasion at his palatial palace at No: 2 Sir Ben Emeka Road, Otuocha Umueri with a Thanksgiving Service the following day 7th September, 2025 at Saint Gabriel’s Cathedral, Umueri. The festival holds deep cultural and spiritual meaning, bringing together the community to give thanks for the harvest and honor illustrious sons and daughters.
During the Iwa-ji New Yam Festival, Igwe Oke-ebo Umueri Ancient Kingdom will lead the community in a solemn ceremony to thank God Almighty first and foremost for the preservation and gracious mercy that has ushered in a bountiful harvest. The Traditional Ruler will pray and bless roast yam, partaking in a symbolic portion before officially permitting his subjects to partake in the new yam. He will equally pray and break kolanut after presenting some to key dignitaries and heads of clan. This practice signifies the beginning of a new cycle of life, growth, and abundance.
The festival is also an occasion to recognize and honor outstanding individuals who have brought distinction and pride to Umueri. The Traditional Ruler will confer chieftaincy titles on illustrious sons and daughters, acknowledging their contributions to the community’s development and progress. This aspect of the festival showcases the importance of community recognition and the value placed on individual achievements.
The New Yam Festival, celebrated across Igbo land, is a key pointer to the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people. Yam, considered the “king of crops,” plays a vital role in the socio-cultural lives of the people. The festival is a celebration of life, community achievements, and well-being, marking the beginning and end of the farming season. It is an opportunity for the community to come together, strengthen bonds, and reinforce cultural heritage as well as exchange pleasantries.
This year’s festival promises to be an exciting event, with different masquerades dancing and various dance troupes showcasing the rich culture of Umueri Ancient Kingdom. The event will feature a vibrant display of both spiritual and traditional practices, music, and dance, making it an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
His Royal Majesty Sir (Dr) Ben Izukwukwu Emeka, Igwe Oke-ebo Umueri Ancient Kingdom, is a well respected King who has demonstrated a deep commitment to preserving and promoting the community’s cultural heritage and over all development.
The public and well wishers are cordially invited to join in the celebration of the Iwa-ji New Yam Festival and experience the rich culture of Umueri Ancient Kingdom which promises to be an unforgettable experience. Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 6, 2025.
Umueri Ancient Kingdom is a prominent town in Anambra State, southeastern Nigeria, with a rich history and cultural significance. The kingdom is divided into three major kindreds: Ezi Umueri, Ikenga Umueri, and Ivite Umueri. With a strong Christian presence and a vibrant cultural heritage, Umueri is a place of great historical and cultural importance.
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