The Abia State Government endorses Ekponibro Festival to enhance cultural tourism and boost the state’s economy

The Abia State Government has officially endorsed the Ekponibro Festival, a key cultural celebration of the Atani Abam Community, with a promise to promote it as a globally recognised cultural event.

This strategic move is part of the state’s broader plan to enhance its cultural tourism industry, create thousands of jobs, and stimulate economic growth.

During the event’s endorsement, the Commissioner for Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, Mr. Matthew Ekwuribe, expressed the current administration’s dedication to positioning Abia State as a prime destination for tourists.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ekwuribe highlighted that the government’s commitment extends to preserving the state’s cultural heritage while driving economic development through tourism.

“We are committed to preserving our cultural heritage. By endorsing the Ekponibro Festival, we aim to grow our economy, create jobs, and enhance cultural tourism,” Ekwuribe explained.

He also praised the efforts of the Atani Abam community for reviving this ancient festival, assuring them of continued government support.

The festival, which holds historical significance, was originally borrowed from the Ibibio ethnic group by Abam ancestors engaged in coastal trade.

According to Hon. Jones Ike, General Manager of Abia Newspapers and member of the organising committee, the festival commemorates the end of the trading season when merchants would return home, showcasing their wealth and celebrating survival after navigating dangerous seas and hostile encounters with pirates.

Ike also shared that the Igu River played a crucial role in inter-communal trade, connecting Igbo merchants, the Efiks, Ibibios, and even European traders before the advent of roads and motor vehicles.

Ekponibro, also called Ugbo Nmirioma or “Boat of the Good River,” honours the entrepreneurial spirit of the Old Bende people from Abia North.

Efforts to revive the festival have been spearheaded by Chief James Chijioke (Ike Abam) and the Unubiko Foundation. The event promises to be a grand celebration of the region’s rich history and culture.

Scheduled to take place on April 19 in Atani Abam, the Ekponibro Festival will feature cultural troupes, masquerades, and traditional performances from across Abia North.

Distinguished guests, including dignitaries, government officials, and foreign diplomats, are expected to grace the occasion. Furthermore, posthumous awards will be presented to renowned coastal merchants, including two surviving traders from the region.

Chief Kalu Olaka, Chairman of the Organising Committee, lauded the endorsement from the Abia State Government, stating that it provides the festival with the credibility and momentum needed to attract both local and international tourists. He noted that the government’s backing will serve as a catalyst for the festival’s growth and success.

Addressing misconceptions about the festival’s nature, Hon. Ike clarified that the Ekponibro Festival is not fetish in nature. He pointed out that the region’s early interaction with European missionaries led to the introduction of Christianity, contradicting claims of any “diabolic” association with the festival.

Similarly, Commissioner Ekwuribe emphasised the importance of embracing Igbo traditions, lamenting the gradual erosion of the state’s cultural heritage. He stressed that cultural festivals, such as the Ekponibro Festival, are vital for preserving traditions and fostering a sense of pride in the younger generation.

“Masquerades are part of our culture,” Ekwuribe stated. “There is nothing diabolic about them unless people introduce negativity into the celebrations. Festivals like Ekponibro teach our youths the values of hard work, resilience, and excellence.”

Ben Ogbuzu, another member of the organising committee, echoed this sentiment, noting that the festival inspires young people to pursue success through innovation, much like their forebears who ventured into the seas for trade.

With full backing from the Abia State Government, the Ekponibro Festival is set to become a major cultural and economic force, driving both local and international tourism.

The festival promises to play a key role in boosting Abia State’s economy while strengthening the cultural identity of the Igbo people and showcasing their rich heritage to the world.