Governor Otu Harps on Significance of Leboku, Reiterates Commitment To Festival
Cross River State Governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has harped on the significance of the Leboku International New Yam Festival, describing it as a momentous occasion of communal unity, cultural preservation and promotion.
The Governor made the remarks at pre-event activities marking the 2023 Leboku International Festival at the Umor-Otutu Palace, Tuesday in Ugep, Yakurr local Government Area.
The festival has as it theme for this year: “Ugep International Festival, An Agro Tourism Event: A Panacea For Post Covid-19 Economy.”
Governor Otu, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon Emmanuel Ironbar, said that Leboku has placed the state on the global cultural map, and reiterated the commitment of his administration to continue to support the festival and other cultural activities in the state that celebrate community togetherness, peaceful co-existence and prosperity.
“My administration remains committed to supporting the Leboku Festival and all other cultural activities that promote community togetherness, cultural preservation and peaceful co-existence.
“Our commitment is demonstrated in our being here today and having made available all that is needed to make this year’s event a memorable one, especially holding at the stadium after the Covid-19 pandemic.
“This is the Season of Sweetness and the sweetness will sweeten the activities of Leboku this year,” the governor assured.
Speaking also, the Paramount Ruler of Yakurr, Obol Lopon of Ugep, His Royal Majesty Obol Ofem Ubana Eteng, said, “the Leboku has many benefits including promoting family values, strengthening kinship and a symbol of thanksgiving.”
The festival is slated for August 20 and will attract people from all walks of life.
Emmanuel Ogbeche
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
Cross River State.