- Assures of robust plans for tourism, culture sectors
BY UBON EKANEM, CALABAR – The popular Leboku New Yam festival in Yakurr Local Government Area has kicked off the 2023 Cross River State tourism calendar with Governor Bassey Otu assuring that the State is now set on the path of reclaiming its lost glory and competitiveness in Nigeria’s tourism and culture sectors.
He said the administration’s robust plan for the sectors, fully captured and to be implemented under the tourism calendar, will witness a new vista of activities aimed at promoting the state’s rich cultural heritage within and on the global stage.
Governor Otu, who flagged off the event by paying the traditional homage to the Paramount Ruler of Yakurr LGA, Obol Upana Eteng, pledged that his administration is focused on adding value to all activities lined up to promote the people’s culture and ensuring this year’s edition of the festival leaves an indelible mark on the mind of both the Yakkur people and visitors to the area.
Represented at the event by his Chief of Staff, Mr Emmanuel Ironbar, the governor also assured tourists visiting the state to participate in the annual festivities of their safety and peaceful celebration throughout the festival as well as other events earmarked for celebration under the State’s tourism calendar.
Earlier in his remarks, the Paramount Ruler of Yakurr LGA, Obol Upana Eteng described the Leboku New Yam festival as an age-long event that is hugely treasured by the people and should therefore not be toyed with.
According to him, the festival bears significant traditional relevance to the existence of the Yakurr people, pleading that it is imperative for the government to continue supporting and promoting the event as its corporate social responsibility to the people rather than things that could easily hinder the celebration,
Formally inviting the governor to be the Chief Guest at the occasion and also witness how dear the festival is to the Yakurr nation, Obol Eteng said besides signaling the commencement of the eating of new yam, the Leboku festival celebration also provides a fertile ground for the consummation of new marriages and the fostering of family bonds.
