THE UGWUABIA FESTIVAL OF ABIA STATE, NIGERIA

THE UGWUABIA FESTIVAL OF ABIA STATE, NIGERIA

Nigerians are known for their diverse festival celebrations held to mark important seasons of the year. The Igbo people of Southeastern Nigeria for example, are especially known for practicing different festivities, even in a seeming modern world. At the beginning of their cultural festivals, many Igbos based in urban areas would be seen returning home to their villages to identify with their roots and to be a part of a celebration that resonates with them. Today, we discuss the UgwuAbia festival of the Abia people.

Abia State is one of the five states in the southeast geopolitical zone of Nigeria. The state, which was formed from the old Imo State in 1991 has since grown into one in which the Igbo people take pride. The people of Abia boast of a distinct cultural heritage, which they are eager to showcase at the slightest opportunity. Their festivals for instance are usually full of beautiful displays that reveal the state’s rich history. 

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In Abia State, the UgwuAbia festival is celebrated colorfully. UgwuAbia, which means “Pride of Abia” is done to showcase the richness of the state’s culture and tourism. The festival, first held in the year 2000 is a grassroots festival or carnival in the state where people from different local government areas send groups to showcase the richness of where they belong to. All these take place in an open space, attended by dignitaries from various parts of the state. The festival enhances cultural revival, fosters promotion, and encourages unity amongst ethnic groups in Abia State.

In Abia State, the UgwuAbia festival is celebrated colorfully. UgwuAbia, which means “Pride of Abia” is done to showcase the richness of the state’s culture and tourism. The festival, first held in the year 2000 is a grassroots festival or carnival in the state where people from different local government areas send groups to showcase the richness of where they belong to. All these take place in an open space, attended by dignitaries from various parts of the state. The festival enhances cultural revival, fosters promotion, and encourages unity amongst ethnic groups in Abia State.

UgwuAbia festival is usually a colorful ceremony that features the parade of masquerades and the display of a rich cultural ensemble of people from different local council areas, the film industry, celebrated musicians, and tourism practices which mostly adds pep to every segment of the event.

Although no Abia state festival is held without a purpose, the UgwuAbia festival seems to be one of the most prominent ones held in the state. This is not unconnected to its continuous promotion of the culture, tradition, and growth of the state. On some occasions,  the festival shines the light on the history of the state and reminds the people of some traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation.

You’ll be interested to know that Ugwuabia is not the only festival celebrated in Abia state. There is the popular Iwaji (New Yam) festival, an annual festival celebrated by all Igbo people and in all Igbo states of Nigeria. This is usually done to give thanks to the gods of the land for a successful yam harvest and to celebrate the start of a new planting season. This is a renowned celebration practiced by the Igbos.

Other festivals include the Ekpe Festival which occurs in January to celebrate the beginning of a new year, the Ohiafia Heritage Festival celebrated to showcase the heritage of the Ohafia and the old Bende people in Abia North Senatorial, and Ikoro Festival celebrated in Akwete Ndoki Community of Abia State.

All these festivals play a vital role in the social, political, economic, and religious sustenance of the communities in Abia state.

Have you ever attended any festival in Abia State? Please share your experience with us.