Abia State is making a bold move to put its rich cultural heritage on the global map. The state government has officially endorsed the Ekponibro Festival, a historic celebration by the Atani Abam community, with the aim of boosting tourism, creating jobs, and driving economic growth.
Speaking on the endorsement, the Commissioner for Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, Matthew Ekwuribe, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving Igbo traditions while leveraging them for economic prosperity.
“This festival is more than just a cultural event—it’s an opportunity to attract local and international tourists, create employment, and strengthen our identity,” Ekwuribe stated.
The Ekponibro Festival, also known as Ugbo Nmirioma (Boat of the Good River), has deep historical roots. Originating from inter-communal trade between the Igbo, Ibibio, Efik, and European merchants, it marks the end of the trading season, where merchants would return home, showcase their wealth, and celebrate their survival from harsh sea conditions and pirate attacks.
The festival’s revival, championed by Chief James Chijioke (Ike Abam) and the Unubiko Foundation, has been met with widespread excitement. This year’s edition, set for April 19 in Atani Abam, will feature cultural troupes, masquerades, and dignitaries, including foreign diplomats and top government officials.
Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Chief Kalu Olaka, described the state’s endorsement as a game-changer, giving the festival the credibility it needs to draw global attention.
“The Ekponibro Festival is not just a cultural display—it’s a legacy of resilience, trade, and survival. With the government’s support, we are ready to take it to the world,” Olaka said.
In response to misconceptions about African cultural festivals being fetish, Hon. Jones Ike, a key committee member, dismissed such claims as ignorance.
“Ekponibro is not fetish—it’s history, tradition, and identity. In fact, it was merchants from this region who first interacted with European missionaries and introduced Christianity to our community,” he clarified.
With the festival gaining momentum, Abia State is positioning itself as a cultural tourism hub, proving that tradition and economic progress can go hand in hand. Will this be the key to unlocking a new era of prosperity for the state?
