The Abuja version of Leboku, the popular new yam cultural extravaganza celebrated by the Yakurr people of Cross River State is holding this weekend in Abuja.
In a statement issued by the organisers, Kedei Seh Umor Otutu Development Association, the 2025 Leboku Festival is intended to bring the rich cultural heritage of the Yakurr people from Cross River State to the Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory.
The celebration in Abuja, which is the 4th edition, is to hold at the Bolton White Marquee, 31 Kigoma Street, Wuse Zone 7, on Saturday, August 30, from 12 PM.
The organisers said the festival will offer Abuja residents and visitors a taste of Yakurr language, art, music and cuisine, alongside formal ceremonies to honour community leaders.
Among those to be honoured are the representing Cross River Central, Senator Eteng Jones Williams; the member representing Yakurr/Abi Federal Constituency, Right Honourable Alex Egbona; and the Cross River State Commissioner for Special Duties, Honourable Oden Ewa.
According to the President of the Kedei Seh Umor Otutu Development Association, Barrister Queency Patrick, two high-profile presentations will headline the event. Chief Arikpo Ettah will receive the Yatumanen Beh Yakurr award in recognition of his lifelong contributions to the unity and development of the Yakurr Nation.
The festival will also unveil Senator Liyel Imoke, former governor of Cross River State, as Grand Patron of Leboku in Abuja, in recognition of his efforts to develop the Yakurr nation during his time as Governor.
Special guests of honour include Honourable Hannatu Musa Musawa, Nigeria’s Minister for Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, and Mr Obi Asika, Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture. Their presence underscores the federal government’s growing support for regional cultural festivals as drivers of tourism and creative-economy growth.
“We are delighted to bring a piece of Yakurr land to Abuja,” said Barrister Queency Patrck, President of the Kedei Seh Umor Otutu Development Association. “Leboku is more than a festival—it’s a celebration of unity, heritage, and the enduring spirit of our people. We look forward to welcoming dignitaries, cultural enthusiasts, and the media to share in this unforgettable experience.”
Beyond the ceremonies, attendees will be treated to traditional dances, costume displays and an array of indigenous dishes, from cassava-based delicacies to palm-wine refreshments.
The organisers hope the event will foster cultural exchange, promote tourism in Cross River and encourage youth engagement in preserving ancestral customs.
The 2025 Leboku Festival in Abuja arrives at a time when Nigeria’s creative economy is receiving renewed focus from policymakers. By bringing grassroots culture to the nation’s capital, the Yakurr community aims to showcase how regional traditions can contribute to national unity and economic diversification.
