Preparations Begin for Leboku Festival 2022, Timetable Release
Preparations have entered top gear as the 2022 Leboku International new yam festival begins.
The festival holds every year in Yakurr local government area of Cross River State and is also one of the most anticipated cultural events in the state, which has enjoyed sponsorships and support from both the private and public sector.
The team from Events department, Governors office, Calabar led by the Senior Special Adviser Events and Tourism, Hon. Ken Aklah represented by Mr Thomas Ikpeme, Senior Special Assistant Events Tourism and Production.
The first call was to the Chairman of Yakurr Council,represented by his Chief Press Secretary Mr Eno Edet and other top members of the LGA.
Afterwards the team paid a courtesy call to the Paramount ruler of Ugep Obol Ofem to inform them of the Governments intent to be fully involved in the festival this year as the pandemic had limited governnents involvement in the last 2 years.
According to the SSA Events Production, Mr thomas Ikpeme this year will be the grandfinale of the festival for Sen. Prof Ben Ayades administration. The 11 communities will also be part of this years celebration as it has not taken place in the last 2 years and this year 2022 will be a full explosion of culture and tourism in Ugep,Yakurr local government area.
According to the Paramount Ruler of Yakurr LGA, Obol Ofem Ubana, “Leboku is a celebration of peace and love.It is also a taboo to fight during the festival.it is a time for friendship and laughter.
People are not even buried during this period. This year promises to be better than last year.”
He assured that in an era where banditry has become rampant across the country, they have made efforts to secure their communities and that tourists and guests should feel free to visit and enjoy themselves as security is one of their top most priority.
Other members of the team at the meeting included Mr Mathias Amgbah, SSA Web and Social Media, Mr Ekpenyong Ojoi, SSA Tourism, Mr Patrick Ogar, SA Admin and Mrs Margaret Angiatang, Director of Admin; Events Department/Goversnors office.
Save Festival the dates:
10th August – World press conference
18th August – Mr and Miss Leboku pageant
19th – Etangala carnival
20th – Grand finale of the Ugep international new yam festival (Lekaa Boku)