By Ruth Orji
Nawfia Community in Njikoka Local Government Area came alive on September 26, as people from all walks of life converged at the palace of His Royal Majesty, Igwe Ambassador Ogochukwu Daniel Obere, to commemorate the 2026 ‘Iriji’ New Yam Festival.
Addressing newsmen at the occasion, the traditional ruler described the New Yam Festival as one of the prominent cultural festivals in Igboland, created to further advance the culture of the people.
According to him, the Nawfia heritage must be preserved, while he also harped on the need for peaceful coexistence, harmonious living, and improved interpersonal and inter-community relationships, stating that no community can make headway in the absence of peace.
While commending the state government for the good road networks created in various communities across the state, the Igwe urged the government to tighten the security apparatus.
He called on all elites of the Nawfia Community to embrace the iact of charity by being their brothers’ keepers, underscoring its long-term benefits for posterity as that is what they’ll be remembered for after their sojourn on earth .
On his part, the President-General of the Nawfia Progressive Union, Daniel Okoye, advised members of the community on the need to follow the sequence of events, stating that hard work pays and urging youths to desist from harmful practices, as there is dignity in labour.
Okoye encouraged the women to continue farming, notwithstanding the challenges faced, promising that things would get better as the government is working hard to create the Anambra of their dreams.
While declaring that the festival would continue to get better in the years to come, he appealed to members of the community to continue to show their support and solidarity for the Unity Palace of the Nawfia Community.
Highlights of the event included the ‘Iwaji’ ritual, dancing by different masquerades from the community, as well as dancing by the Igwe’s cabinet.
Ruth is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation Anambra State
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