Iri Ji Mbaise, celebration of rich cultural heritage —Ohakim

Former Governor of Imo State, Dr. Ikedi Godson Ohakim, GSSI, has described the 2026 Iri Ji Mbaise as more than a festival of new yam. He called it “a declaration of the identity, resilience, and indomitable spirit of the Mbaise nation.”

Dr. Ohakim

In his Goodwill Message to the people of Aboh Mbaise, Ahiazu Mbaise, and Ezinihitte Mbaise, Dr. Ohakim said the annual celebration is a reminder of who we are and what we can become when we return to our roots. The ceremony holds on Saturday, August 15,2026.

“Iri Ji is the celebration of a rich cultural heritage and the proof of Mbaise industry. It is the season we give thanks to God for bountiful harvest. But beyond the merriment, it is a call to nation-building,”Dr. Ohakim stated.

He commended the Mbaise people for their legendary hard work, entrepreneurship, and love for education, noting that “the same hands that till the soil have built homes across Nigeria and the world. The same spirit that plants yam must now plant industries, schools, and opportunities for our youths.”

The former Governor urged Ndi Mbaise to use this year’s festival as a platform for unity, sober reflection, and a new social contract.

“Let Iri Ji 2026 be a turning point. A time when we set aside division and embrace one Mbaise. A time when we demand purposeful leadership, invest in our farms, our factories, and most importantly, in our people. Let us move from celebrating culture to creating wealth with that culture,” he said.

Dr. Ohakim stressed that the greatest tribute to our ancestors is not just new yam but new thinking. He called for intellectual discourse during the festivities on critical issues: security, youth unemployment, agrarian revolution, and the political future of Mbaise both at home and in the diaspora.

“In unity and love, there is no challenge we can not surmount. Mbaise is great because her people are great. Let us build a stronger, more prosperous Mbaise for the next generation,” he added.

While wishing Ndi Mbaise a remarkable celebration, Dr. Ohakim prayed:
“May this Iri Ji bring renewed peace to every home in Mbaise land. May it usher in prosperity for our farmers, progress for our youths, wisdom for our elders, and greater unity among all sons and daughters of Mbaise at home and abroad.