The Igbo community in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos State, recently celebrated the 2024 New Yam Festival, emphasizing cultural ties with China through a collaborative effort involving the HuaXing Arts Troupe Nigeria and the local Chinese community. This vibrant event marks the end of the farming season, symbolizing the onset of a new cycle filled with abundance and prosperity.
The festival featured a variety of cultural performances, including traditional Igbo war dances, captivating masquerades, the energetic Chinese lion dance, and the waist drum dance. Attendees were treated to the communal cutting and tasting of yams, creating a rich tapestry of shared experiences. The atmosphere was further enhanced by community members dressed in traditional attire, reflecting the festive spirit of the occasion.
A notable highlight of the celebration was the presentation of N100,000 in educational support to ten students from the Amuwo Odofin council. Eze Augustine Sunday Ojukwu, the Eze Nidigbo of Amuwo Odofin, welcomed guests and underscored the importance of cultural exchange and unity during his address.
Ojukwu stated, “As we gather to celebrate the bountiful harvest that God has blessed us with, we are also celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria and China, which represents the enduring bonds of friendship and unity that bind us together. This is a moment for us to give thanks, to reflect on our journey, and to renew our commitment to our community and our values.”
He also expressed gratitude to Chief Eric Ni, the Nwanne Di Namba of Amuwo Odofin, for his generous support in providing scholarships to the deserving students. Ojukwu highlighted this gesture as a reminder of the critical role education plays in shaping the future of the youth in the community.