The Kedei Seh Umor-Otutu, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting Nigerian cultural heritage through the forthcoming Leboku-in-Abuja-2025 Festival.
President of the community-based association, Queency Patrick, made this known during a press briefing in Abuja, as preparations continue for the event scheduled for 30 August.
With the theme “A Celebration of Heritage, Unity and Harvest,” the internationally recognised New Yam Festival is being organised under the auspices of Kedei Seh Umor-Otutua socio-cultural association of Ugep-River’s indigenes residing in the Federal Capital Territory.
Patrick described the event as more than a traditional celebration, stating that it represents a national call for unity, peace, and the advancement of cultural tourism.
“This festival aligns with national goals of cultural preservation, inter-ethnic harmony, and the promotion of Nigeria as a cultural destination,” she said. “The Federal Capital Territory provides an ideal setting where heritage meets modernity, welcoming all who believe in peace, identity, and pride of origin.”
She further noted that the festival will spotlight the rich traditions of the Yakurr people of Cross River State, as well as cultural expressions from the South-South and South-East regions. According to her, Leboku-in-Abuja will serve as a platform for celebrating cultural identity, fostering unity through tradition, and driving investment in Nigeria’s creative economy and tourism sector.
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The festival has received formal endorsement from the Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Mr Obi Asika. In a letter supporting the initiative, Asika described Leboku-in-Abuja as an annual New Yam Festival rooted in the customs of the Yakurr people of Cross River.
According to him, “The Leboku Festival has long symbolised unity, celebration, and agricultural prosperity. Bringing this renowned festival to Abuja offers a unique opportunity for cultural exchange, tourism development, and greater 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 key drivers of the creative economy.”
Highlights of the upcoming festival will include a public lecture, economic empowerment programmes, a traditional food fair, cultural and arts exhibitions, sports competitions, as well as showcases in agriculture, trade, and tourism.
The event is scheduled to be held at the Bolton White Event Centre, Wuse Zone 7, Abuja, with the unifying slogan: “One Yam, One People.”