Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has advocated for the preservation of our culture and heritage, insisting that they remain the core of human existence, which, according to him, must be preserved at all costs. 

Otu made this known during the 2025 Leboku International New Yam Festival, celebrated in Ugep by communities across the Yakurr Local Council Area to mark the beginning of the new yam harvest. 

Acknowledging the role of culture and tradition in the development of human existence, he commended the people of Ugep for their dedication to preserving their cultural heritage, which has significantly contributed to the state’s rich tourism potential.

Leboku is an age-old tradition of Ugep and the surrounding communities in Yakurr.  Otu said: “The introduction of the international dimension to the event in 2005 by the state government was primarily aimed at reducing inter-communal skirmishes, creating a common tourism attraction, and increasing food production.

“This year’s event, therefore, marks the 20th edition of the Leboku International New Yam Festival.”

A fair appraisal of the fundamental objective of the event has confirmed that a significant milestone has been achieved. May I, therefore, use this occasion to commend all the sons and daughters of the Yakurr extraction for their efforts in sustaining this event and its deliverables.

“The state is satisfied that over the years, the overall purpose of this festival has been achieved.” He urged young people to embrace farming as a serious business to combat food insecurity. 

“As we celebrate Leboku, I wish to urge other communities to draw inspiration from the unity and oneness of the Yakurr people.”