UTAGBA-UNO/Nigeria: The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA, received widespread commendation for his commitment to preserving and promoting African culture during the Iwaji (New Yam) Festival held on Saturday at Isumpe, Utagba-Uno in Ndokwa West Local Government Area.
Rear Admiral Mike Onah, OON (rtd), an elder statesman, praised Sir Onyeme for his unwavering support of cultural traditions, noting that the Deputy Governor’s presence at the festival underscores his dedication to community values and heritage.
“We are proud of you, our son, Sir Monday Onyeme. You are using your position to project our culture and our people. We are proud of you,” Rear Admiral Onah said. He added that the festival is not only a celebration of the harvest but also a reaffirmation that Ndokwa traditions must be preserved. “Our culture cannot be allowed to go into extinction. It gladdens our heart that, though educated, you remain connected to your roots and love African culture. We will continue to support you,” he said.
Engr. Dan Ossai, who hosted the Deputy Governor at his residence during the festivities, described Onyeme’s involvement as exceptional, saying, “Our Deputy Governor has been very supportive of our culture. We thank him for his efforts.”
The Deputy Governor was accompanied by a delegation that included the Senior Policy Adviser to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, Bar. Sam Osasa, Chief Festus Ochonogor, Chief Obi Nzete, Engr. Gabriel Amuchi, Hon. Azuka Azaka, Sir Christopher Osakwe, Surveyor Godday Aboh, and other dignitaries.
The Iwaji Festival provided an avenue for the community to celebrate the new yam harvest while acknowledging leaders like Sir Monday Onyeme who actively champion cultural preservation, reinforcing the importance of heritage and unity in Delta State.
