Date: 9 August, 2026
By Abraham Ovuoba
Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has urged the people of Ikwo Noyo to preserve their cultural heritage, stressing that the erosion of indigenous values could threaten the identity and unity of future generations.
Nwifuru, who spoke through his Chief of Staff, Prof. Emmanuel Echiegu, gave the charge on Saturday at Edukfu Noyo, Ikwo Local Government Area, during the 2026 Ikwo Noyo NNESWEOHA Festival.
The governor said the annual festival was more than a cultural gathering, describing it as a demonstration of the Ikwo people’s determination to preserve their identity despite changing factors.
He urged parents and community leaders to deliberately pass the people’s traditional values, customs and history to younger generations.
Also speaking, Ebonyi State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Associate Prof. Ben Uruchi Odoh, described NNESWEOHA as a cultural shield against the extinction of Ikwo traditions.
He explained that NNESWEOHA marks the end of the 365-day cultural calendar of Ikwo Noyo and ushers in a new cultural year, after which the five principal communities—Unweka, Alike, Echara, Mgbabu and Okpuitumo—observe their respective New Year festivals.
The Commissioner called for the introduction of stronger, locally relevant cultural education in schools, particularly at the secondary-school level, arguing that young people must understand their roots if the traditions are to survive.
The festival featured colourful cultural displays and attracted Ikwo indigenes and residents from within and outside the State, as well as government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders and other dignitaries.
