The Iyase of Ogwashi Uku, Chief Michael Nwaukoni, has stated the need to upgrade cultural festivals to national events to boost tourism, revenue and attract investors to the country.
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He spoke at the 2022 celebrations of Ineh Festival of Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State. The event heralds the eating of new yam in the town.

The paying of homage to the Iyase at his residence kick-started the celebration, after which Nwaukoni moved to his palace in Agidiese quarters, into the welcoming hands of different cultural troupes from within and outside the town even as his friends came in their large numbers to felicitate with him.

Iyase, the traditional Prime Minister of the town, dressed in his regalia, later led a dance procession through the streets of the community from Agidiase to Ogbe-Nti Obi (Umudei) and back.

Speaking on the festival’s significance, Nwaukoni said it was an avenue to showcase Ogwashi-Uku’s rich cultural heritage and renew the people’s love for one another, noting that such cultural events are able to attract foreign investors and boost the revenue base of the country, if the festivals were upgraded to national events.
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Nwaukoni, a lover of culture and artworks, expressed gratitude to God for a successful planting season that gave rise to a bountiful harvest of yams celebrated by the people, climaxing in the Ineh Festival, and commended the people for their resourcefulness and peaceful disposition, especially the peaceful celebration of this year’s festival.

The Iyase urged them to stay united and lift one another, as that would guarantee growth and development of the ancient kingdom.

Some of the dignitaries who spoke on the occasion, including Chief Hyacinth Ihonor, Olorogun Fred Majemite, Mazi Elue Adigwe, the elder sister of the Iyase, Augusta Mekoma and Youth President, Mr. John Nwona, described Nwaukoni as a philanthropist, unifier, and peace-loving community leader, who has continued to champion the cause of development in the town.

The celebration, which continued into the night, came to a climax when Nwaukoni, in company of his chiefs and friends, danced round to thank the people for their support over the years, saying that this year’s celebration was the best ever celebrated.
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