The quiet community of Ifumkpa, nestled in the heart of Akamkpa Local Government Area, erupted into a carnival of colorist and rhythms on Saturday, September 20, 2025, as indigenes and guests gathered for this year’s New Yam Festival.
From the break of dawn, the air was thick with the aroma of roasted tubers and the sound of traditional drums calling sons and daughters home. Dancers adorned in various traditional regalia took turns on the village square, their graceful steps echoing centuries of ancestral pride. The people were in high spirits, celebrating a season of abundance and thanksgiving for the fruit of their farms—yam, the revered “king of crops.”
The celebration drew dignitaries and visitors, with the highlight being the presence of the Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council, Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi, KSJI accompanied by the Councilor representing Uyanga Ward and Deputy Leader of the Legislative Arm, Hon. Dominic Akposi Ogar. Radiating joy as he joined in the festivity, Akposi praised the resilience of the community in keeping the cultural flame alive.
“It gladdens my heart to identify with you in this celebration. You have kept this age-long tradition intact. The mammoth crowd here today shows how receptive we are as a people. Sustain this legacy, and continue to propagate peace, because peace is the livewire of development,” the Chairman declared to loud applause.
In a forward-looking note, Akposi announced that the long-awaited Uyanga–Ifumkpa–Iko Road would finally be flagged off on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. He urged the community to safeguard the project, provide security and take ownership of the project, noting that beyond easing transportation, the road would boost commerce and create job opportunities for local youths.
“Let me quickly add this important note, this festival can grow into a major tourism attraction. Across the world, culture drives development. Ifumkpa can be no exception,” he added.
The Village Head of Ifumkpa, Obod Cletus Ibuni, beamed with pride as he welcomed the Chairman and his entourage. He lauded Akposi for his inclusive leadership, particularly for appointing indigenes of Ifumkpa into key positions in his administration.
“Your presence here, despite your busy schedule, means so much to us. We are grateful for the love you have shown, and we pledge our total support to your administration. We also thank the state government for remembering us in the upcoming road project,” Chief Ibuni said.
The day climaxed with cultural displays, masquerade parades, and traditional feasts. Joy was written on every face, from elders recounting the value of yam in Ifumkpa’s history, to youths who saw the festival as both entertainment and inspiration.
The 2025 Ifumkpa New Yam Festival was more than a harvest celebration—it was a vibrant reminder of the community’s unity, resilience, and hope for a future where culture and development walk hand in hand.
