Augsburg, Germany – The Nteje Indigenes in Germany gathered in Augsburg for the annual Iwaji Nteje 2024 celebration, a vibrant cultural event dedicated to yam, a significant agricultural product in Nteje and across Igboland, southeastern Nigeria. The festival, which was attended by both members of the Nteje community and their friends, celebrated the rich traditions surrounding yam and its importance as a source of wealth and pride.
In his address at the event, the Chairman of the Association of Nteje Indigenes in Germany (ANIG), Mazi John Ezechukwu (Udaegbe Ndi Nso), highlighted the association’s commitment to unity and support for its members. Established just a few years ago, the association has become an essential platform for the Nteje people living in Germany. The Chairman emphasized that the association was created to bring Nteje indigenes together, provide support in times of need, and promote unity among the members.
“Every Nteje person is entitled to the benefits of this association, provided they choose to participate,” said the Chairman. He also noted the association’s ongoing support for Nteje’s development back home, citing a N500,000(five hundred thousand naira) contribution made during the Iwa ji 2023 celebrations to support various activities in Nteje.
Since its formation, the association has supported its members in various ways, including offering emotional and financial assistance to those who have faced personal loss. The Chairman expressed pride in the progress made, noting that no significant negative events had occurred within the community, apart from the reported deaths of relatives in Nigeria, which were met with collective support.
“Our role in Nteje is one of peace, stability, and progress,” the Chairman stated. “We stand in support of any measures that promote fairness and equity in our town, and we will continue to support the Nteje Development Union (NDU) as long as it serves the common good of the people.”
Mazi John Ezechukwu (Udaegbe Ndi Nso), concluded his speech by urging all members to increase their commitment to the association. He called on everyone to contribute their skills and talents to ensure the continued growth and success of the organization, emphasizing that true brotherhood extends beyond occasional gatherings, but involves consistent care and concern for one another. “We all have a role to play,” he said. “Let us work together to sustain the progress we’ve made, and ensure that this platform remains a valuable resource for all of us here in Germany and back home in Nteje.” The Iwa ji Nteje 2024 celebration was a testament to the strong sense of community and cultural pride among the Nteje people in Germany, and their continued dedication to supporting one another both locally and globally.
Address by the Chairman, Association of Nteje Indigenes in Germany (ANIG), Mazi John Ezechukwu (Udaegbe Ndi Nso), on the Occasion of Iwaji Nteje 2024 in Augsburg, Germany
Distinguished Guests, Fellow Nteje Indigenes, Friends, and Well-Wishers,
It is with great pleasure and a deep sense of pride that I welcome you all to the Iwaji Ndi Nteje 2024—our annual cultural festival dedicated to the revered yam. In Nteje, and across Igboland, yam is more than just a staple crop; it is a symbol of wealth, sustenance, and divine blessing. Today, as we gather here in Augsburg, Germany, we honor this cherished tradition, celebrating our roots while expressing gratitude to God Almighty for the gift of abundance.
The Association of Nteje Indigenes in Germany (ANIG) is a relatively young organization, yet in a short time, we have made significant strides in fulfilling our mission. Our primary goal is to unite, support, and empower the Nteje people living in Germany, ensuring that every member finds a sense of belonging and assistance whenever needed. Our association is built on the pillars of unity, solidarity, and mutual support. We provide a platform where members can connect, build lasting relationships, and receive help, particularly in times of hardship. Additionally, we are committed to safeguarding the rights and interests of our members, ensuring that they are treated with dignity and fairness.
Since our inception, we have taken concrete steps to support our members and contribute to the well-being of Nteje as a whole. Notably:1. Financial Assistance: We have provided support to members facing financial difficulties, ensuring that no one in our community feels abandoned. 2. Community Contributions: During Iwaji 2023, ANIG contributed ₦500,000 towards various developmental activities in Nteje, demonstrating our commitment to giving back to our homeland. 3. Support During Loss and Celebrations: Whether in times of sorrow—such as the loss of a loved one—or in moments of joy, such as child dedications, our association stands together as a family.
ANIG remains dedicated to promoting peace, stability, and progress in Nteje. We are committed to working with organizations like the Nteje Development Union (NDU) as long as their actions align with the best interests of our people. Our stance has always been one of objectivity and fairness, ensuring that every decision we support contributes to the collective good. At times, some of our members have encountered challenges with the NDU, but through our advocacy, these issues have been resolved positively. This highlights one of the key benefits of ANIG—providing a voice and a support system for our people, both in Germany and back home in Nteje.
As we celebrate today, I encourage each of us to deepen our commitment to this association. We have built a strong foundation, but there is still much work to be done. The success of ANIG depends on the collective efforts of every member. Your talents, resources, and dedication are essential to our continued growth and impact.
As Chairman, my vision is to leave behind a legacy of growth, sustainability, and unity. But this is not a task I can accomplish alone—I call on each of you to play an active role in making ANIG a stronger and more influential force. Let us not limit our connections to social gatherings like this festival but extend our bonds of brotherhood throughout the year, supporting one another in all aspects of life. In a special way, I would like to recognize and appreciate: Egwu Ogene Akalugo, for gracing this occasion despite various challenges, Mazi Alupue Aku, for his unwavering dedication to Ndi Egwu Ogene, my Executive Team, whose commitment and cooperation continue to strengthen our association our Esteemed Patrons, Chief Tony Nwankwo and Chief Mike Robert Okonkwo, whose guidance and support have been invaluable, our Financial Secretary, Orimili, our Provost, and many others, whose contributions—both seen and unseen—have played a crucial role in our success.
Together, we will continue to build ANIG into an organization that not only serves its members here in Germany but also contributes meaningfully to the progress of Nteje. Let us remain steadfast in our mission, ensuring that this platform remains a beacon of support, unity, and cultural preservation for generations to come.
Thank you all for being part of this special occasion.
I remain sincerely yours,
Mazi John Ezechukwu (Udaegbe Ndi Nso)
Chairman, Association of Nteje Indigenes in Germany (ANIG)
Iwa Ji Ndi Nteje A Celebration of Heritage and Unity — Chief Tony Nwankwo
Augsburg, Germany – The Iwa Ji Ndi Nteje festival, a vibrant celebration of the Nteje people’s rich cultural heritage, recently took center stage in Augsburg, Bavaria, drawing together the Igbo diaspora and cultural enthusiasts from across Europe.
In an interview with Stadt Newspaper, Chief Tony Nwankwo (Chinyelugo I of Nteje Aborgu), a patron of Nteje indigenes in Germany and a key organizer of the festival, underscored the event’s spiritual and cultural significance. “The New Yam Festival is a time to give thanks to Chineke (God) for the gift of yam, which holds a sacred place in Igbo tradition. It symbolizes hard work, sustenance, and prosperity,” he explained.
Beyond the feasting and festivities, the event serves as a powerful unifying force for the Nteje community abroad. “While we stay connected through online meetings, the Iwa Ji festival offers a rare opportunity for in-person gatherings, strengthening our bonds as a family and as a people. It is not just a festival—it is a homecoming,” Chinyelugo emphasized.
The festival has grown significantly in scale and recognition, with this year’s edition surpassing previous ones. Looking ahead, Chinyelugo revealed ambitious plans for expanding the event in 2025, including relocating it to Munich and incorporating more cultural elements like masquerade performances to enrich the experience. As the Iwa Ji Ndi Nteje festival continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the resilience and commitment of the Nteje diaspora in preserving their ancestral traditions. With its increasing prominence, it is poised to become a landmark celebration of Igbo culture across Europe.
An Interview with Chief Tony Nwankwo (Chinyelugo I of Nteje Aborgu)
Mazi Tony Nwankwo, a patron of Nteje indigenes in Germany and one of the key organizers of the Iwa Ji Ndi Nteje cultural festival, spoke with Stadt Newspaper during the ongoing festivities in Augsburg, Bayern, Germany. In this interview, he sheds light on the significance of the festival, its role in uniting the Nteje diaspora, and his vision for its future growth.
Stadt Newspaper: Chief Tony Nwankwo, Chinyelugo I of Nteje Aborgu, it is a pleasure to speak with you. As a patron of the Association of Nteje Indigenes in Germany, which organizes the Iwa Ji Ndi Nteje festival, can you explain the significance of this cultural occasion?
Chinyelugo: Thank you. The Iwa Ji festival is an essential cultural event for the people of Nteje and the broader Igbo community in southeastern Nigeria. It is a time to express gratitude to the Almighty God (Chineke or Chukwu) for the gift of yam, which holds a central place in our culture and agriculture. Yam is revered in Igbo tradition as a divine blessing, and its cultivation symbolizes hard work, sustenance, and prosperity. This festival celebrates that gift, honoring the miracle that a single yam, when planted, can yield an abundant harvest. As Igbos, we believe that every aspect of creation, no matter how small, is shaped by God’s hand. Traditionally, before consuming the new yam, we must first offer thanks—this act of gratitude strengthens our spiritual connection to the land and our Creator.
Stadt Newspaper: How does celebrating the Iwa Ji festival in Germany resonate with the people of Nteje back home?
Chinyelugo: Back home in Nteje, the Iwa Ji festival typically takes place in September, marked by elaborate communal rites. It is not just about cutting and eating yam—it is a deeply symbolic occasion that unites the community in thanksgiving. By celebrating the festival here in Germany, we align ourselves with our people in Nteje and reaffirm our shared identity. This event is an expression of our cultural heritage, which predates us, and we take pride in preserving and passing it on. While we thank God for this year’s harvest, we also pray for continued blessings in the future.
Stadt Newspaper: What measures do you think should be taken to ensure the continuous improvement of this festival?
Chinyelugo: To enhance the festival, we must begin planning for the 2025 edition immediately after this one. Early preparation is critical, particularly in securing a suitable venue, which can be a complex process. Additionally, many of our members have demanding professional and personal commitments, so proactive planning helps us navigate these constraints. With better organization, we can ensure a smoother, more inclusive, and more impactful celebration.
Chief Tony Nwankwo (Chinyelugo I of Nteje Aborgu)
Stadt Newspaper: In what ways does this festival contribute to uniting the people of Nteje?
Chinyelugo: This festival serves as a powerful unifying force for the Nteje community. While we stay connected through online meetings, the Iwa Ji festival offers a rare opportunity for physical gathering, strengthening our bonds as a family and as a people. It fosters face-to-face interactions, reinforcing our shared heritage and providing a platform for cultural exchange and renewal. In essence, it is not just a festival—it is a homecoming.
Stadt Newspaper: Over the years, the Iwa Ji Ndi Nteje festival has grown in prominence. How can it be further improved to attract more Igbo diaspora communities across Europe?
Chinyelugo: Each year, the festival evolves and expands. This year’s edition has already surpassed the previous one in scale and organization. For 2025, we plan to make it even more remarkable by relocating the venue to Munich. Additionally, we aim to integrate more cultural elements, such as masquerade displays, which are a vital part of Nteje’s traditions. These performances will enrich the festival experience, making it more immersive and appealing to a wider audience.
Looking back, we have come a long way—from celebrating in a private living room two years ago to hosting the event in a hall this year. Who knows? With continued growth and community support, the next festival might be held in a stadium. Mazi Tony Nwankwo (Chinyelugo I of Nteje Aborgu) is deeply committed to preserving and promoting Nteje’s cultural heritage. The Iwa Ji Ndi Nteje festival serves as a vital bridge between the Nteje diaspora and their ancestral roots, fostering unity, identity, and cultural pride. With his forward-thinking vision, the festival is set to grow into a major cultural event, strengthening Igbo heritage across Europe and beyond.
Mazi Sunny Nwankwo (Aku Nwata n’ Nteje)
Stadt Newspaper had also the privilege of speaking with Mazi Sunny Nwankwo (Aku Nwata n’ Nteje), a proud son of Nteje who traveled from the Netherlands to Germany to partake in the 2024 Iwa Ji Nteje Festival. This significant cultural event, deeply rooted in the traditions of Nteje, Nigeria, continues to gain recognition and momentum among diaspora communities across Europe. In this exclusive interview, Mazi Nwankwo shares his experiences, reflections, and hopes for the future of Nteje traditions abroad. In addition to the special guest, Stadt newspaper had the opportunity of speaking with Mazi Chukwudi Nwadike (Ichie Alupue Aku I of Nteje) and Mazi Okechukwu Onwuanu among many other dignitaries present at the occasion. The conversations with the respondents highlighted the deep passion and commitment of the Nteje diaspora in staying connected to their roots. Events like the Iwa Ji Ndi Nteje Festival serve as cultural bridges, linking the past with the present and reinforcing the values of community, heritage, and identity—even in distant lands.
Stadt Newspaper: Mazi Sunny Nwankwo, you traveled all the way from the Netherlands to Germany to witness this historic occasion—the Iwa Ji Ndi Nteje Festival. What are your impressions of the event, and what aspect of it brought you the most joy?
Mazi Sunny Nwankwo: Thank you. This event holds immense cultural significance, and being part of it has always been a personal aspiration. Today, I feel deeply honored and grateful to finally experience it firsthand. The Iwa Ji Ndi Nteje Festival is a time-honored tradition that reflects our heritage, values, and communal spirit. Seeing it celebrated here in Germany, with such vibrancy and enthusiasm, fills me with immense pride. The 2024 edition has been particularly remarkable, and I extend my sincere appreciation to the organizers for their dedication in keeping our traditions alive. I also thank Stadt Newspaper for recognizing the importance of this cultural celebration.
Above all, what brings me the most joy is the opportunity to reconnect with my brothers and sisters in the diaspora, to share in our rich customs, and to strengthen the bonds that unite us—no matter how far we are from home.
Stadt Newspaper: It’s fascinating to see how this annual event has flourished in Germany. However, we understand that it is not yet formally celebrated in the Netherlands, despite the presence of Nteje indigenes there. Why is that?
Mazi Sunny Nwankwo: That’s a great question. Indeed, the Iwa Ji Festival deserves to be formally recognized in the Netherlands, just as it is here in Germany. However, one of the challenges has been the size and structure of our diaspora community in the Netherlands. Organizing a large-scale communal event requires a certain level of coordination, participation, and logistical planning, which we are still working towards.
Mazi Sunny Nwankwo (Aku Nwata n’ Nteje)
That said, this experience in Germany has been truly inspiring, and I am confident that it is only a matter of time before the Nteje community in the Netherlands comes together to establish a similar annual celebration. Culture thrives when people take ownership of it, and I believe we are heading in that direction.
For now, many of us observe the festival privately, ensuring that the essence of Iwa Ji is not lost, even in a foreign land. Personally, I celebrate the festival on the same day it is held back home in Nteje, inviting friends, family, and well-wishers to partake in the festivities. It would be a dream come true to see this evolve into a fully recognized community-wide event in the Netherlands.
Stadt Newspaper: Mazi Sunny Nwankwo, thank you for sharing your insights. Your enthusiasm and commitment to preserving Nteje traditions abroad are truly inspiring.
Mazi Sunny Nwankwo: Thank you. It is both a duty and a privilege to celebrate and promote our heritage. No matter where we find ourselves, our culture remains a vital link to our identity. Let us continue to uphold the spirit of unity, tradition, and resilience, ensuring that the customs of Nteje are passed down to future generations.
Mazi Chukwudi Nwadike (Ichie Alupue Aku I of Nteje)
As the Iwa Ji Ndi Nteje 2024 cultural festival unfolds in Augsburg, Bavaria, Germany, Stadt Newspaper sat down with Mazi Chukwudi Nwadike (Ichie Alupue Aku I of Nteje), one of the key organizers of this year’s event. In this interview, he discusses the festival’s cultural significance, the lessons it imparts, and its growing recognition among the Nteje diaspora in Europe.
Stadt Newspaper: Good evening, Mazi Chukwudi Nwadike (Ichie Alupue Aku I of Nteje). As one of the organizers of the 2024 Iwa Ji Ndi Nteje in Augsburg, Bavaria, Germany, can you explain the significance of this cultural festival?
Ichie Alupue Aku: Good evening, and thank you. The Iwa Ji (New Yam Festival) is a deeply rooted tradition in Nteje, passed down from our ancestors. It is a time of gratitude and celebration, marking the harvest of yams, which symbolize hard work, patience, and divine blessings. Although we are far from home, wherever one resides becomes a home in its own right. That is why we, the Nteje people in Germany, have come together to uphold this important tradition. It is not just about food and festivity; it is about maintaining our cultural identity, strengthening communal bonds, and expressing gratitude to Chukwu Okike (God the Creator) for His blessings.
Stadt Newspaper: Beyond the food, entertainment, and social gathering, what deeper lessons does this festival impart?
Ichie Alupue Aku: The festival is rich with valuable lessons. Firstly, it teaches that a bountiful harvest—whether in farming or life—results from hard work, dedication, and faith. Agriculture requires patience, and our forefathers emphasized that only those who labor deserve to enjoy the fruits of their efforts. This is why stealing for sustenance is considered a cultural taboo in our society.
Even here in Augsburg, while we may not be farming, we remain spiritually connected to the harvest celebrations in Nteje. The yams we roast and share today symbolize the principles of diligence, gratitude, and integrity. This festival reinforces the timeless truth that “he who works, eats”—a philosophy that transcends culture and remains essential for a successful and fulfilling life.
Stadt Newspaper: In 2023, the Nteje diaspora also celebrated the Iwa Ji Festival. How does this year’s event differ, particularly in terms of its growing recognition among Nteje communities across Europe?
Ichie Alupue Aku: Our goal has always been to build on past successes and make each year’s festival bigger and better. While the 2023 celebration was remarkable, this year’s event has seen even greater participation and cultural representation. What is particularly exciting is the growing interest beyond the Nteje community. People of various races and ethnic backgrounds have joined us, sharing in the beauty of our traditions. Additionally, we have received more visitors from other European countries this year, which speaks to the festival’s increasing recognition and appeal.
We are committed to sustaining this momentum and ensuring that the 2025 edition attracts an even wider audience.
Stadt Newspaper: What are the tangible benefits of hosting this cultural event in Germany, particularly for Nteje back home?
Ichie Alupue Aku: The festival serves multiple purposes beyond cultural preservation. Firstly, it fosters unity among Igbo people in the diaspora, reminding us of our shared values, heritage, and ancestral ties. Secondly, it acts as a platform to showcase the rich traditions of Nteje to a global audience. This year’s event has drawn participants from various Nigerian and African communities, as well as individuals from different cultural backgrounds. By celebrating our heritage in an international setting, we are putting Nteje on the map, increasing awareness about our town’s traditions, and enriching its cultural legacy. In the long run, we hope that this growing recognition will open doors for cultural exchanges, economic opportunities, and greater global appreciation of Nteje’s history and traditions.
Mazi Chukwudi Nwadike (Ichie Alupue Aku I of Nteje) is a passionate advocate for preserving and promoting Nteje’s cultural heritage. The Iwa Ji Ndi Nteje festival in Germany is not just a celebration of the yam harvest—it is a reaffirmation of identity, unity, and the values that define the Nteje people. With the event gaining more recognition across Europe, the future looks promising for the festival, ensuring that Nteje’s cultural legacy remains vibrant for generations to come.
Mazi Okechukwu Onwuanu
Among the distinguished guests at the Iwa Ji Ndi Nteje celebration in Germany was Mazi Okechukwu Onwuanu, popularly known as Eke Nweofia. Reflecting on the event, he expressed immense satisfaction with both its appropriateness and the enjoyment it provided. Commending the efforts of the Nteje community in Germany, Mazi Onwuanu described the festival as a model worthy of emulation. “Nteje Aborgu is a remarkable town, and here in Germany, it has demonstrated an exemplary commitment to preserving and showcasing Igbo cultural heritage,” he remarked.
He further praised the meticulous organization of the event, calling it an exceptional and thrilling cultural feast. “This celebration is a resounding success, a testament to the dedication and quality of the organizers. Every detail reflects a deep commitment to tradition and excellence.”
Mazi Onwuanu also highlighted the impressive representation of the broader Igbo community in Bavaria, noting the rich display of Ogene music and the vibrant dance performances that captivated attendees. “The performances were not only entertaining but left a lasting impression on everyone present,” he concluded.
His words underscore the significance of the Iwa Ji Ndi Nteje festival as more than just a cultural event—it is a powerful statement of identity, unity, and the enduring spirit of the Nteje people in the diaspora.