During the 2025 Rathobai (New Yam) Festival in Ediba community, Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State, youths were encouraged to see agriculture not only as a cultural legacy but as a viable and rewarding career essential for both personal growth and community progress.
Speaking at the grand ceremony held at the Village Primary School playground, the Festival Chairman, Asodor Freedom Ejom, stressed the event’s theme, “Enduring Peace for Sustainable Development,” while underscoring the role of agriculture in driving economic stability and empowering young people.
Ejom called on the youth to take advantage of the state’s ongoing agricultural revival by investing in lucrative cash crops such as cocoa, oil palm, and coffee, which have been reintroduced through Governor Bassey Otu’s agricultural programmes.
He further advised them to acquire vocational skills like plumbing and electrical work to expand their income opportunities.
“With the right training and adequate government support, our young people can tap into the rich potential of our fertile land to secure better livelihoods,” he said.
Commending the determination of Ediba’s farmers, Ejom noted that lasting peace is the foundation of any meaningful development.
He proudly acknowledged that the Bahumono land has enjoyed five consecutive years of uninterrupted peace.
Chairperson of the organising committee, Dr. Rita Akpan, described the Rathobai Festival as more than a cultural celebration, highlighting its increasing influence on the local economy.
According to her, the event has become a driver of economic activity, attracting visitors from across Nigeria, stimulating trade, and offering farmers and artisans valuable opportunities to prosper.
She explained that during the festival, demand for local products such as garri, yams, rice, and handcrafted items rises sharply, channeling income directly into households within the community.
“Our music, dance, arts, crafts, and other cultural expressions are not only showcased but also harnessed as tools for economic growth,” she said.
Dr. Akpan commended the united efforts of the community and its partners in ensuring the festival’s success, stressing that such collective achievements inspire pride and purpose among young people.
“We are planting seeds of cultural pride, productivity, and resilience in our youth,” she added.
Welcoming guests to what he called a land rich in unity and tradition, His Royal Highness, Ovai Ejom Edward Ejom, the Regent of Ediba, said yam holds deep significance for the people.
“It is more than a staple food; it represents our survival, our gratitude, and the enduring strength of our communal bond,” he remarked.
He praised local farmers, cultural groups, and organisers for their contributions, reaffirming that Ediba’s progress depends on its cultural heritage and commitment to agriculture.
“Let Rathobai be a lasting reminder that our strength comes from the land and from those who work it,” he declared.
Also addressing the gathering, President of Ediba Union Worldwide, Chief Ettah Osu, described the festival as a symbol of unity and a powerful reminder of the community’s shared heritage.
He urged young people to take an active role in driving the growth and long-term sustainability of Ediba.
