Ozo Nwoye Chiedu Idezuna, the founder and convener of The Eko New Yam Festival, which is held annually in Ibeju Lekki, Lagos, has called on Nigerians to return to farming amid rising costs of goods and commodities. Speaking on the upcoming festival, Idezuna, also known as “Ezemmuo Afirka,” highlighted the significant economic challenges currently facing Nigeria and expressed concern about their potential impact on this year’s celebration. Nonetheless, he affirmed that the festival will proceed as planned, featuring new awards to recognize prominent Nigerians who have contributed to national development. These awards, dubbed the “Eko New Yam Festival Achievers Award,” will honor achievements in sports, education, art, culture, agriculture, and tourism.
Despite the financial burdens associated with organizing the festival, Idezuna emphasized the importance of community support and sponsorships to ensure its success. He announced plans to hold the festival biennially to allow for more thorough planning and a more meaningful celebration. Reflecting on last year’s financial strain, he shared that he had to sell one of his vehicles to fund the event, including a football competition.
The Eko New Yam Festival, which has been celebrated since 2003, stands as a symbol of togetherness, Love, Peace, and Friendship. It is the only festival in Lagos that unites people across various tribes, religions, and cultures annually. Idezuna urged all Nigerians to embrace this spirit of unity
Addressing the federal government, Idezuna implored President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently tackle the hunger crisis gripping the nation. He warned of a potential revolution if the current economic situation is not addressed swiftly, noting the growing disparity between the rich and the poor. He criticized the administration’s borrowing practices, claiming they have exacerbated the country’s debt without yielding tangible benefits for the populace.
The 2024 Eko New Yam Festival, themed “Festival of Food, Agriculture, and Friendship,” will take place on September 28th, coinciding with World Tourism Day celebrations from September 27 to 29th 2024. Idezuna used this platform to advocate for increased government support for farming. He encouraged Nigerians to engage in farming activities, even if on a small scale, suggesting that planting crops such as beans, melons, vegetables, and yams could beautify surroundings while providing food.
The festival’s motto, “Peace and Progress,” underscores the belief that true peace and progress are unattainable without addressing hunger. Idezuna called on federal, state, and local governments to provide farmers with necessary equipment and soft loans, arguing that such measures would significantly reduce hunger and promote prosperity in Nigeria.
Source: https://peoplesvoiceonline.com.ng
