Nigerians of Igbo descent in Sunderland celebrate New Yam Festival
- Godstime David
- Sep 15, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 17, 2024
Nigerians in Sunderland came together to celebrate the new yam festival.
Nigerians of Igbo descent in Sunderland gathered in grand style to celebrate the annual Iri Iji (New Yam) Festival.
New yam festival is a traditional event that marks the beginning of the harvest season and honours the yam as the king of crops.
The festival, which is celebrated annually by the Igbo people, symbolises the reward of hard work and the reaping of the fruits of labour.
The Mayor of Sunderland and Consort graced the event, alongside a large turnout of Nigerians from both within and outside Sunderland.
Chairman of Ndi Igbo Sunderland, Dr. Nnamdi Obaji said: “The Igbo people have been part of Sunderland for several decades, and we celebrate the Iri Iji (New Yam) Festival with great pomp and pageantry. To us, the yam is the king of all harvests, symbolising the reward of hard work and the reaping of our labor,” he said.
The president stressed the power of cultural recognition in fostering unity within the Igbo community.
“One of the things that unite us as Igbo people is our respect for culture, and the yam festival is central to that. If you go anywhere and cannot find an Igbo man, you should probably run, as the land might be barren,” he joked, acknowledging the global presence of the community and their contributions to every society they join.
“This yam represents more than just food; it is a symbol of survival, prosperity, and the connection between the land and our ancestors. Every yam harvested is a reminder of our collective strength and the importance of never losing sight of where we come from, even as we move forward in modern society,” Dr. Obaji said.
He also said the importance of community involvement, especially for future generations can not be overemphasised.
“There is joy in being part of a community. We encourage everyone to identify with and contribute to community development, particularly in raising our children with strong cultural and traditional values.”
Councillor Allison Chisnall, Mayor of Sunderland said: "It is truly wonderful to see people from different backgrounds come together for such a meaningful event. The New Yam Festival is a celebration of culture, and it’s been absolutely amazing to witness. I would definitely attend again."
Councillor Chisnall emphasised on the importance of embracing diversity, adding; "It is vital that we create spaces where we can come together, experience, and appreciate each other’s cultures. Events like this show how we can all live together in harmony, learning from and enriching each other’s lives."
The Mayor also encouraged immigrants who may not yet feel part of a community to reach out. Adding that the council is there to help everyone "feel welcome and become a part of Sunderland."
"For me personally, this celebration holds great significance," said Fidelis Ubehi, PRO of Ndi Igbo Sunderland.
"Our goal with these events is to preserve our rich culture and ensure it doesn’t fade away, laying a strong foundation for the younger generation. This is the way our ancestors passed down traditions to us, and it’s our duty to carry that forward, ensuring it's passed on from generation to generation."
"In a fast-changing world where younger generations are increasingly influenced by global trends and social media, it’s crucial that we anchor them in their roots. By celebrating events like the New Yam Festival, we remind ourselves and our children of the importance of heritage, unity, and identity."
Mr. Ubehi also said: "We welcome everyone, regardless of their tribe or background. This is not just a celebration for the Igbo community, but for anyone who values being part of a supportive, close-knit community. These events foster a sense of belonging and mutual respect, which is so important in today’s society."
"We encourage not only Igbos but all who want to experience the richness of different cultures to join us. The doors are open for anyone who is interested in community, culture, and building strong relationships across various backgrounds. There is strength in diversity, and it is through coming together that we can truly thrive", he added.
Sunderland resident, Benjamin Munachimso said: "As an Igbo living away from home, this festival means everything to me. It’s more than just a celebration—it’s a way to stay connected to our roots, our heritage, and our people. Being able to experience the New Yam Festival here in Sunderland makes me feel like I’m back in the heart of my village, surrounded by family.
"It reminds us that no matter where we are in the world, we carry our culture with us—and that’s something no distance can take away.
"For many of us who live abroad, this celebration brings a sense of belonging and identity. It allows us to teach our children the values we were raised with, passing on the stories and traditions that define us a people."
An attendee of the event, Favour Robinson said: "Coming from Newcastle to attend this festival has been an incredible experience. It’s not every day that i attend cultural event as this one, especially being so far from Nigeria.
"I am not Igbo, but i love their culture. It’s worth every mile to feel that connection again and to celebrate something that’s been passed down through generations."
"There’s something powerful about gathering with fellow Nigerians to celebrate a tradition that ties us all together, no matter where we are in the world. It’s also great to see how events like this create a strong bond between different Igbo communities across the UK. We might live in different cities, but we are united by the same culture."
Ms. Robinson also described her experience as amazing and encouraged other immigrants to step out of their comfort zones and meet people regardless of where are from.
Doris Osgwelen editor of 2024 Ndi Igbo magazine said: "The Igbo New Yam Festival is a profound celebration of our culture.
"Witnessing this festival come to life in places like Sunderland, far from our ancestral homeland is proof of our commitment to preserving our identity, no matter where we are in the world.
"This event goes beyond mere festivity, it symbolises unity, strength, and the continuity of Igbo customs", she added.
Meanwhile, the event was full of cultural highlights, including traditional Igbo dances, children's performance, Music, wrestling performance, the cutting of the kola nut, which is seen as a symbol of hospitality, followed by the blessing of the new yam to give thanks for the harvest.
The unveiling of the 2024 magazine, along with a variety of Igbo dishes like pounded yam, jollof rice, and abacha, was a key highlight of the event, adding both cultural depth to the celebration.
Watch the video of the event in five minutes here.
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