IGBUZO, DELTA STATE — The ancient kingdom of Igbuzo in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State has commenced activities for Ifejiọku and Iwaji 2026, the revered New Yam Festival and harvest season celebrated as a symbol of thanksgiving, cultural identity, unity and communal prosperity.
The celebration officially commenced with Ilu Ezi Ifejiọku, a traditional community-wide sanitation and preparation exercise observed across the town’s ten Ebo, Ogbes and Idumus.
The exercise marks the beginning of one of the most significant cultural seasons in Igbuzo and the wider Anioma region.
Popularly known as “Isu na Mba Ogu” (Warriors from Isu), Igbuzo occupies a prominent place in the history and cultural heritage of Anioma and Igbo civilisation. Its reputation for courage and resilience is reflected in the popular saying, “Isu fu ogu ju nni,” which speaks to the determination and steadfastness associated with the people of Isu.
Historically, the town was known as Igbuzo, a name commonly associated with the expression “Igbo bi na uzo,” meaning the Igbo people living along the road. The name was later anglicised to Ibusa by British missionaries and colonial administrators. Despite the colonial spelling, many indigenes continue to identify strongly with the original name, Igbuzo.
Speaking on the significance of the festival, Obi (Dr.) Henry Chukwuma Ajudua, President of Vebron Carre Conglomerates, USA, described Ifejiọku and Iwaji as more than a celebration of harvest and entertainment.
According to Ajudua, the festival provides an important opportunity for the people to reconnect with their ancestors, families, kindreds and cultural heritage while expressing gratitude to God for a successful farming season.
The traditional calendar released by the Senior Diokpa of Igbuzo, Onowu Paul Ijeh, indicates that August 21, 2026, marked the commencement of Ilu Ezi Ifejiọku, a day dedicated to communal cleaning and the preparation of public spaces, pathways, compounds and traditional meeting grounds ahead of the main festivities.
Ajudua explained that the sanitation exercise goes beyond environmental cleanliness, describing it as a demonstration of collective responsibility, unity and communal pride.
He noted that preparing the community for the festival also symbolises the people’s readiness to receive the blessings associated with the harvest season.
At the heart of the celebration is yam, which occupies a central position in the cultural life of the people. Beyond its importance as a staple food, yam represents hard work, endurance, dignity, abundance and gratitude. It symbolises the reward of labour and the prosperity of the land.
As preparations intensify, Ajudua called on sons and daughters of Igbuzo, both at home and in the diaspora, to return and participate actively in the celebrations.
He urged indigenes to reconnect with their roots, visit family members, honour elders, support youth development and strengthen communal relationships.
He also emphasised the need for peace, discipline and respect for traditional institutions throughout the festivities, describing the festival as an opportunity for reconciliation, healing and a renewed commitment to the values that have sustained the community for generations.
Ajudua further stressed the importance of educating younger generations about the deeper meaning of Ifejiọku and Iwaji, noting that culture goes beyond dances, ceremonies and entertainment to encompass identity, history, responsibility and continuity.
He said Igbuzo must remain committed to protecting its traditions and cultural values at a time when communities around the world are increasingly concerned about preserving their heritage.
The festival is expected to attract indigenes from across Nigeria and the diaspora, as well as visitors and cultural enthusiasts interested in experiencing the rich traditions and heritage of Igbuzo.
Expressing optimism about the celebrations, the President of Vebron Carre Conglomerates said Iwaji 2026 would further strengthen unity among kindreds, deepen respect for traditional institutions and reinforce the collective identity of the people.
As the sacred season unfolds, prayers have been offered for abundant harvests, peace in homes, progress in the community and continued prosperity for Igbuzo people wherever they may reside.
The celebrations will continue in accordance with the traditional calendar, culminating in ceremonies honouring the land, the harvest and the enduring cultural legacy of the ancient kingdom of Igbuzo.
