Izhi (Ebonyi), – Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi, has advised Izhi-Nnodo-Ekumeny youths to channel their minds towards innovation to spur growth and development in the area.
Nwifuru gave the advice on Saturday during the Grand Finale of the 2023 Izhi New Yam Festival, with the theme; “Our culture, our heritage, our pride” in Izzi Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the feast is held annually to announce the coming of new yam in Izhi land.
The governor said the new revolutions should be creative and impact lives for sustainable development of the area and state at large.
He urged them to be more industrious, not to forget their tradition and farming activities.
He admonished the group not to rely solely on appointments but prepare for future invention to become champions.
He added that their outstanding commitments and contributions towards the government would advance unity and progress in the area and across the state.
He, however, expressed satisfaction over the turnout of Ebonyi people from various zones of the state and the guests, who graced the occasion.
He appreciated the continuous commitments and contributions from members of the House of Representatives, the Senate, House of Assembly, among others, towards the transformation of the state.
Meanwhile, Mr Godwin Ogbaga, Chairman of the occasion, described the festival as first of its kind, following the emergence of Gov. Nwifuru.
Ogbaga called for continuous unity and progress for sustainable development of the clan and the state.
In his remarks, Mr Sunday Nwangele, Chairman of the Central organising Committee, said that the numerical strength of the area had given recognition to the political system in the LGA and urged the people to unite to ensure more dividend of democracy.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event attracted top government functionaries, former governor of the state, Mr Martin Elechi, Mrs Nkechi Emma-Echieagu, Wife of Chief of Staff to the governor, and Mrs Chinwe Okah, the state Commissioner for Budget, Planning, Research and Monitoring, among other dignitaries.
Activities at the event featured performances from dance troops, display of cuisines and attire of the Igbos. (NAN)