Abia State Governor Alex Otti has commended the Chairman of the South-East Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Linus Nto Mbah, for promoting agriculture through his annual New Yam Festival.

Otti gave the commendation on Saturday during the 2026 New Yam Festival of Eze Mbah, the Eze Udo I of Ata Igboukwu Umuzomgbo Autonomous Community, Ihechiowa, in Arochukwu Local Government Area of the state.

The governor said the traditional ruler was leading by example in promoting agriculture, adding that the time had come for hard work in the farming sector to receive appropriate rewards.

He described agriculture as a critical sector that would continue to enjoy the support of his administration in efforts to ensure food security and drive economic growth.

Speaking at the event, Eze Linus Nto Mbah, who also serves as Chairman of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, highlighted the significance of the New Yam Festival and reaffirmed his commitment to revitalising agriculture to ensure adequate food production.

“The New Yam Festival is not merely a cultural ceremony; it is a symbol of our identity, unity, gratitude, and respect for the values handed down to us by our ancestors.

“As we celebrate this year’s New Yam Festival, I urge us to continue to promote peace, love, hard work, and cooperation. Let us encourage our youths to value our cultural heritage while actively participating in agriculture, education, and other productive ventures that will secure the future of our community,” Eze Mbah stated.

The traditional ruler called on governments at all levels to introduce incentives that would encourage young people to return to farming.

He described agriculture as the bedrock of the nation's economy and stressed the need to attract more youths to the sector.

In his vote of thanks, the Prime Minister of the community, Chief Okorie Ndu, highlighted the strong agricultural tradition of Ihechiowa and said residents were delighted by the bumper harvest recorded in 2026.

Ndu assured Governor Otti and members of his cabinet of the continued support of the Ihechiowa people.

He also declared that the governor's re-election in 2027 was not negotiable.

The event was chaired by the former Mayor of Arochukwu Local Government Area, Joe Ezearu, and attracted the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, as well as chairmen of traditional rulers' councils from various states in the South-East.