The people of Omor community in Ayamelum Local Government Area, Anambra State, came alive on Saturday, August 23, 2025, as their traditional ruler, HRH Igwe Dr. Chris Oranu Chidume (Eze Igulube Omor, Eze Anaukwu), hosted the 2025 New Yam Festival (Iwa Ji Omor) in grand style.

The igwe, while addressing his people and dignitaries, called on both the state and federal governments to deepen support for local production, stressing that Nigeria’s economic revival lies in agriculture and homegrown industries. According to him, encouraging citizens to produce what they consume will cut down reliance on imports, open doors for exports, and ultimately reduce poverty.

Igwe Oranu praised Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo’s administration for ensuring peace and order in the state, which, he noted, contributed to the smooth celebration of the festival. He, however, urged the government to push further in boosting productivity across all sectors.

Speaking at the event, the Obi of Onitsha, HRM Igwe Alfred Achebe, also harped on the need for Nigerians to return to farming. He reminded Ndi Anambra and indeed Ndigbo that the simple practice of backyard farming once sustained families and could still play a vital role in tackling food insecurity.

On his part, the leader of the Omor Supreme Elders Council, Retired Justice Paul Obidigwe, showered praises on the monarch for his generosity and commitment to the progress of the community. He prayed for long life, prosperity, and an enduring reign for the Igwe.

The festival itself was a colorful spectacle. Masquerades thrilled the crowd, dance troupes lit up the stage, and cultural displays by women and Ndi Ada groups added glamour to the day, making it a celebration to remember.

However, the event was not without drama. Just days after Hon. Bernard Udemezue, who represents Ayamelum Constituency at the Anambra State House of Assembly, openly criticized the state leadership, he was reportedly stopped by Governor Soludo’s security operatives from exchanging pleasantries with his monarch. The lawmaker resisted, insisting he could not be barred in his own hometown.

Despite the brief tension, the festival drew a large gathering of dignitaries, including the Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somto Udeze; the Commissioner for Homeland Affairs, Chief Chikodi Anara; the Commissioner for Industry, Mr. Christian Udechukwu; and several traditional rulers such as HRM Igwe Dr. Mike Idigo of Aguleri and HRH Igwe Johnson Mbanefo of Mkpunando Aguleri.

The Omor New Yam Festival once again highlighted not just the rich cultural heritage of the people, but also the growing call for Nigeria to embrace agriculture as a path to economic revival.