By Patrick Ochei
The people of Ugboba Kingdom in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, on Sunday, September 21, 2025, gathered in large numbers to celebrate the Iwaji Festival (New Yam Festival) with their revered monarch, HRM Obi Emmanuel Ezedinbu Nkebakwu III, in a display of cultural splendor and communal unity.
The festival once again provided the agrarian, coal-rich community the opportunity to showcase its rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted harmony.
Radiant in his regal attire, Obi Nkebakwu performed his traditional role with visible delight, dancing gracefully to the rhythms of local drummers as he basked in the joy and loyalty of his people.
The celebration attracted family members, indigenes from all quarters of Ugboba, the Ugboba Development Union (UDU), the Ugboba Youth Association, management and staff of Mosra Energy Limited, as well as friends and well-wishers from across the country, all eager to honor a monarch whose reign has elevated the community’s visibility and progress.
Speaking on the significance of the event, the Secretary-General of the Ugboba Development Union, Chief Otobo Ofili, described the Iwaji Festival as a cultural homecoming that reinforces peace and unity among the people.
“Ugboba is known for its hospitality and openness to strangers. We extend love without barriers, trusting that wherever our sons and daughters reside, such goodwill will be reciprocated,” Chief Ofili said.
He further urged the people to continue to support and cooperate with their king, stressing that Obi Nkebakwu’s vast network and visionary ideas remain vital to the kingdom’s sustained development.
The festival also reflected the season’s bountiful harvest, as many villagers presented large yam tubers to the king in homage. The palace grounds brimmed with agricultural produce, food, and drinks, creating an atmosphere of joy, peace, and thanksgiving.
The Iwaji Festival, once again, underscored Ugboba’s enduring tradition of celebrating abundance, unity, and the blessings of the land
