From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
Abia State Government said it is partnering the Unubiko Foundation and the Atani Abam community in Arochukwu Local Government Area, to internationalize the Ekponibro cultural festival to boost tourism in the state.
This was disclosed by the state Commisioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Dr. Matthew Ekwuribe when a delegation of the Unubiko Foundation and the Atani Abam community led by Chief Jones Ike visited him in his office.
Dr. Ekwuribe said before now, government paid less attention to issues concerning the cultural well being of the people, but expressed joy that since Dr. Alex Otti came on as Governor, he has made it as a matter policy that cultural heritage of communities in the state should be promoted.
“Our history and culture appear to be going into extinction because some of these things are no longer celebrated.
“Some of these cultural festivals are used to showcase the exploits and greatness of our forefathers. We need to use them in this age to tell our youths what their forefathers did in the years past to be great.”
The Commissioner said Abia State Government has endorsed the Ekponibro cultural festival and will participate fully to bring it to international limelight.
The leader of the delegation, Chief Ike had told the Commissioner that the festival which holds every year, is being sponsored Chief James Chijioke, founder of Unubiko Foundation.
He highlighted the importance of the festival which he said was used to remember the exploits of their forefathers especially in the area of commerce.
Ike disclosed that the festival which will take place on April 19, will be used to honour two surviving early merchants who brought the festival to the community.
“We are going to use the occasion to give post humours awards to some of our forefathers who took part in the early trade with the Europeans. We are also going to honour two surviving of the elder statesmen.”
He called for active participation of all as the festival is the celebration of culture and excellence which encourages development.