By Ifeoma Anokwuru
It was a celebration galore, as dignitaries from all works of life gathered in their numbers in Owerri, to celebrate new yam festival hosted by Mbaise indigenes living in Owerri , known as UmuMbaise United.
In his welcome address, the chairman of UmuMbaise United, Owerri Branch , Chief Udechukwu Nwaobasi , noted that the celebration is the continuation of the general new yam festival of Mbaise nation celebrated on the 15th of August, 2024 . He added that the celebration is to promote the cultural heritage and to offer thanksgiving to God Almighty for providing foods ( yams ) to mankind.
” Today, we celebrate our most precious cultural heritage , the Iriji Mbaise here in Owerri . As we partake in this ceremony , let us not lose sight of it’s essence : appreciation to God , the dignity of labour, the importance of agriculture .
He informed that the association stands for unity and progress of it’s members , and it is
opened for all illustrious sons and daughters of Mbaise living in Owerri and environs .
He appreciated those that graced the occasion and urged members of UmuMbaise United to be
Steadfast.
The chairman of the occasion , Nze Silver Akataobi , Commended members of UmuMbaise United, Owerri Branch for coming together as one . said the event is to show gratitude to God Almighty for providing yams for people , which he described as the king of crops .
The chairman Planning Committee , Comrade Chima Onyekwere , called on those who are yet to join the association to do so . He added that the celebration promotes culture, tradition and heritage.
The secretary of the association , Hon Chimaeze Ignatius Megwa Noble , urged Mbaise indigenes to uphold their cultural heritage and values and shown evil vices . He described Mbaise people as industrious people and urged good spirited individuals, cooperate bodies and company to support their association and activities for continues prosperity of the association.
The Legal Adviser of the association , Barr Chinonso Ahaneku , advised Mbaise indigenes to love and help each other . He charged others who are yet to join to do so to promote culture and traditions. He also advised those in diaspora to inculcate Igbo values on their children.
The highpoint of the event was the cutting of the new yams by some members of the high table.
