Transforming Cultural Festivals into Economic Opportunities

During the New Yam Festival, known as the "Iyi Akpa Oke Ikeji festival," in Ezi Edda, Ebonyi State, cultural custodian and farmer Dr. Onuoha Nnachi called on governments at all levels to convert Nigeria’s traditional festivals and agricultural resources into sustainable economic platforms. He stated that cultural celebrations should promote social cohesion, economic empowerment, and the preservation of indigenous heritage.

Nnachi described festival activities, including Ipo, a communal yam porridge symbolizing peace, and Uri Ayegeya, a traditional dance marking the farming season's transition. He expressed concern over the declining tradition and the need for preservation efforts.

Nnachi, who cultivates about 17,000 hectares of farmland across Nigeria, highlighted the economic potential of traditional markets and urged the Ebonyi State Government to develop agribusiness through production, processing, and marketing. He noted that poor processing leads to significant post-harvest losses and advocated for local processing facilities to enhance job creation and reduce waste.