Nawfia Celebrates Ikpo Ji Festival, Reaffirms Commitment to Cultural Heritage
By Nwoye Bridget Uju
The people of Nawfia in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State have celebrated the Ikpo Ji Nawfia Cultural Festival, a colourful event that brought together traditional rulers, members of the Igwe’s Cabinet, Ndi Ozo, community leaders and indigenes of Nawfia and Umunri.
The festival, held on August 12 was hosted by High Chief Sir Obi Udeogu, Ozonkpu, who welcomed guests and participants to the celebration aimed at promoting the community’s rich cultural heritage, unity and traditional values. The event was graced by the Traditional Ruler of Nawfia, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Dr. Daniel Ogochukwu Obelle, accompanied by his wife, Lady Florence Obelle, members of the Igwe’s Cabinet and various Ndi Ozo.
Addressing participants at the festival, Igwe Obelle stressed the need to preserve Nawfia’s cultural heritage and ensure that younger generations understand, appreciate and sustain the traditions handed down by their forefathers. He noted that cultural festivals such as Ikpo Ji provide an avenue for the people to celebrate their identity, foster togetherness and strengthen relationships among families and communities.
The Igwe’s wife, Lady Florence Obelle, also urged women and families to remain actively involved in cultural activities and ensure that traditional values are passed on to their children.
Similarly, members of the Igwe’s Cabinet and Ndi Ozo, including Mr Kenneth Obi, described the festival as an important platform for promoting peace, unity and the preservation of Nawfia’s cultural heritage. A major highlight of the celebration was the announcement that the sale of Ji Ohú (new yam) had been officially permitted at Afor Market, Nawfia, in line with the community’s cultural practices.
The development is expected to enable residents to fully participate in the traditional new-yam season while adhering to established customs and directives of the community. The organisers also announced that the Erim Ji Festival would hold on September 25, as part of activities marking the new-yam season and celebrating the cultural heritage of Nawfia.
The Ikpo Ji Nawfia celebration ended with renewed calls for unity, peaceful coexistence and the continued preservation of the community’s cultural values for the benefit of present and future generations.
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