By Uche Chukwu, Onitsha
The traditional ruler of Amawbia in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, Igwe Uchenna Okonkwo, has announced cash rewards for villages with the highest yam yields to encourage farming and boost food production.
The announcement was made during the opening of the three-day Eziokpaligwe Cultural Festival at the Amawbia Civic Centre.
Cash incentives to boost arming
The village with the best overall yield will receive ₦100,000, while the second and third positions will get ₦50,000 and ₦25,000 respectively.
The six participating villages are Umueze, Umukabia, Enuoji, Ezimezi, Ngene and Adabebe.
Igwe Okonkwo emphasized the need for stronger commitment to agriculture, noting that increased farming activity is vital to tackling food shortages and improving livelihoods.
Festival Promotes Unity and Culture
He added that the festival goes beyond farming, serving as a platform to strengthen unity, preserve cultural heritage and reinforce shared values.
“Such gatherings go beyond celebrating the land; they reinforce the values and heritage that define our community,” he said.
President-General of Amawbia Town Union, Nze Chukwudi Odumodu, described the festival as a period of thanksgiving and prayers for protection, guidance and a successful farming season.
Chairman of Umueze village, Chief Ikechukwu Okeke, said the annual event reminds residents to prepare adequately for farming. He expressed confidence that his village would retain its title after winning two trophies in the previous edition.
The Eziokpaligwe Festival is an annual event held in March to mark the beginning of the farming season and promote unity among the people of Amawbia.
Tags:
Amawbia, Anambra State, Eziokpaligwe Festival, Igwe Uchenna Okonkwo, Yam Farming, Agriculture, Food Production, Cultural Festival, Rural Development, Community Unity, Awka South, Farming Incentives, Nigeria Agriculture, Traditional Leadership, Food Security.
