The Federal Government has formally endorsed Leboku-In-Abuja 2025, the annual New Yam Festival celebrated in Abuja by the Yakurr people of Cross River State.
Obi Asika, Director General/CEO of the National Council for Arts and Culture, in a letter on behalf of the FG, described the landmark cultural event, organized by the socio-cultural group, 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”.
According to Asika’s letter, “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”, he said.
“It aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and NCAC’s mandate to promote arts and culture as essential drivers or Nigeria’s creative economy”, he added.
He commended the organizers 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
Leboku is an annual international 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 local government area of Cross River State.
In Abuja, a miniaturised version is held annually 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.
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