Ikwuano-Obodoukwu New Yam festival
The Ikwuano-Obodoukwu New Yam festival is a traditional harvest celebration in the Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria. It marks the conclusion of the farming season with a blend of Christian thanksgiving and indigenous Igbo customs, including the formal ritual consumption of the first yams of the year.
- Date
- Aug 9, 2026
Event summary
Highlights
- Thanksgiving Mass at Christ the King Catholic Church
- Formal Iwaji and Iriji (yam eating) ceremonies at the palace
- Performances by the Njima Ikwuano cultural troupe
- Homage paid by local age grades including Oganihu and Ofuobi
The 2026 celebration began with a thanksgiving Mass at Christ the King Catholic Church in Eke Obodoukwu before moving to the palace of the paramount ruler, Eze Jude Obidiegwu. The core of the festival involves the Iwaji and Iriji ceremonies, which represent the ritual cutting and eating of the new yams to signify a successful agricultural cycle.
Public festivities include performances by the Njima Ikwuano cultural troupe and the Igbo Enwezu Cultural Dance. Various local age grades, such as Oganihu and Ezinwanne, along with social clubs like Idinotu, participate by paying homage to the traditional ruler. The event typically attracts traditional rulers from across the Obodoukwu clan and various political dignitaries from the Ideato region.
Practical details
- Area for browsing nearby events
- Ikwuano-Obodoukwu, Ideato North Local Government Area
Before attending
Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.
Sources and further information
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Location map
Approximate area only; exact venue coordinates are not confirmed.
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