See Celebration of Life and Culture at the New Yam Festival in Amorka, Anambra state, Nigeria.

Amorka Town, a border village in Anambra State’s Ihiala Local Government Area, has finally celebrated the long-awaited New Yam celebration.

The New Yam Event, also known as Iwa ji, Iri ji, or Ike ji, is an annual cultural festival held by the Igbo people in August and September at the conclusion of the rainy season.

The Iri Ji festival is celebrated not only in Nigeria but also in Ghana and other African nations.

The Traditional Ruler of Amorka Kingdom, Igwe K.O. Obiriolemgbe, told the media during the festival in Amorka that the event served as a vehicle to bring the people together to exhibit their valued and rich culture and customs.

“It is a vital event for us since both our folks who stay far and close usually attend the August event and use the chance to think on the community’s path forward,” he says.

Speaking on behalf of the Amorka Council of Chiefs and the people of Amorka, the acting Traditional Prime Minister of Amorka, Chief Sir Chinweuba L Ndukaihe, praised the Almighty God for a good crop this year 2022 and for giving them the grace to see another New Yam (Iri Ji) celebration.

“Also, our thanks go to the Governor of Anambra State, Prof Charles Soludo, for his sincere battle against insecurity in the state, which is allowing events like this to take place peacefully,” he stated.

The newly appointed Traditional Prime Minister of Amorka prayed that the new yam festival will continue to encourage peace in Amorka, Anambra State, the whole eastern region, and Nigeria at large.

On behalf of his family, the Amorka Improvement Union (AIU), the umbrella Town Union organization of the Amorka community, and the People of Amorka, Prof Simeon H.O. Alozieuwa felicitated with the Traditional Ruler of Amorka, HRH Igwe K.O. Obiriolemgbe, on the occasion of the ‘Iri Ji’ – new yam festival.

“Your Highness, as you celebrate our Igbo history with this major cultural event, it is my heartfelt prayer that the Almighty be continuously with you. He will lead you, and give you wisdom, good health, and long life to pilot the affairs of our dear community.”