The Special Adviser on Events Management in the Governor’s Office of Cross River State, Mr. Effiong Ekpenyong, has affirmed that the Leboku International New Yam Festival will continue to strengthen the cultural economy of the Yakurr communities. Speaking at a press briefing held at the Palace of Obol Opon in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area, Ekpenyong emphasized that the policy direction of His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, is centered on a “people first” approach. This focus drives the administration’s collective pursuit of delivering people-oriented projects and programs.Acknowledging the efforts of the pioneers of the festival, Ekpenyong pledged to ensure the sustainable development of Leboku to meet global expectations. "We are committed to upholding the legacy of this festival, ensuring that it continues to grow and attract global attention," he said.In line with fulfilling the administration’s policy direction regarding the festival, Ekpenyong stated that his office would collaborate closely with all relevant stakeholders in event management and production. "We are open to ideas and innovations that will enhance the annual festival," he added.
Ekpenyong also praised members of the national and state assemblies, as well as other key stakeholders, for their contributions to the growth of the festival."My special thanks to the Senator representing the Central Senatorial District, the Member of the House of Representatives for Abi/Yakurr, Members of the House of Assembly for Yakurr 1 and 2, Heads of the Tourism Clusters of Cross River State, HOLGA Yakurr, and the local organizing committee of the Leboku International New Yam Festival 2024," Ekpenyong said. "We have benefitted from shared knowledge and experience from a series of meetings, ensuring a very successful Leboku 2024."He continued, "Our sponsors, stakeholders, and well-wishers, your swift response, even on short notice, is highly commendable. We are engaged in a trailblazing effort to add value to every contribution, from brand image promotion to products and services marketing, ensuring a return on investment and revenue generation for the state. The expectations this year are higher, given the rich cultural heritage of the Yakurr nation and the Leboku festival."Ekpenyong also announced that the festival, set to take place on August 21, 2024, will mark an evolution of the Leboku International New Yam Festival. "This year, we are extending the socio-cultural value-chain to build a cultural economy for the people of Yakurr and Cross River State at large through the Leboku spirit," he stated.
The Commissioner for Tourism, Art, and Culture, Mr. Abubakar Ewa, represented by Mr. Dan Akeke, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the importance of collaboration. "We are on the same page. We promise to ensure that we have a better Leboku festival. Besides Leboku, there are other tourism attractions like Ugep Stones and Waterfalls that will help enhance our cultural economy," he said.Similarly, Mrs. Rita Egbe Ayuk, Head of Local Government Administration, represented by Director of General Services and Administration, Mr. Ndoma Francis, stressed the importance of cooperation among all stakeholders. "We have been working with Obol Lopons to ensure a smooth celebration. I enjoin all stakeholders to cooperate so we can have a memorable event on August 21," she remarked.The Managing Director of the Tourism Bureau, Prince Ojoi Ekpenyong, highlighted plans to collaborate with hotels and hospitality providers to ensure the safety and comfort of guests during the festival. "We will also collect data on visitors and Yakurr indigenes attending the annual festival. All we ask from the people of Yakurr during the celebration is peace from the eleven autonomous communities," he said.Prince Ojoi Ekpenyong also noted that this year marks the 18th edition of the Leboku Festival, and by the end of the year, the state government would have awarded 52 cars to winners of the Mr. and Miss Leboku titles since the festival's inception.Commending Governor Bassey Otu for his commitment to revitalizing Leboku, the Obol Lopon of Ugep and Paramount Ruler of Yakurr, HRM Obol (Dr.) Obol Ofem Ubana, emphasized the festival’s significance. "Leboku is very important to the Yakurr people because it is an opportunity to thank God for turning the half yams we planted into whole yams. It signifies that God is with us and has authority over all of us," he said.He added, "Between February and July, there is usually hunger in our communities. So, in August, as we celebrate Leboku, we celebrate with our family, friends, and well-wishers who have survived the hunger period. This year’s festival will be the best because all plans are progressing well. During this period, we observe a lot and will not see or eat new yam until Monday, August 19, 2024, when farmers return from the bush."The 2024 Leboku International New Yam Festival promises to be a landmark event, furthering the cultural and economic development of the Yakurr communities while preserving the rich heritage of the region.
