CEM REPORT, TOURISM | Festivals are the major bedrock of Nigerian tourism industry and hold the prospects for the development of the industry being the most viable medium to showcase the rich culture, way of life and the hospitality of the people of Nigeria
Au Ukhua, the annual festival of Iviukhhua community in Estako-East Local Government in Edo State has been officially recognized as a national festival just like the other ones like Ofala, Argugu, Ojude oba festivals and the rest.
Senior High Chief (Dr) Kennedy Izuagbe, President General of Ukhua Worldwide declared this to CEM Television in an interview during the end of the year gathering of the South-West Chapter of the Union.
The endorsement letter has been presented to the Chairman of the Au-Ukhua Carnival Organizing Committee, Mr Christopher Aigwanyiokha, by the Director General of  Nigerian Tourism Development Agency (NTDA). Mr Folarin Coker, represented by the Director of the Legal Department, who also doubles as the Legal Adviser to the DG, Mrs Funebi Otu Umondak.
The people of Ukhua community of Edo North are known to be hospitable and accommodating of visitors that troop in annually to enjoy a rich culture displayed in variety dances, delicacies and arts. Bounded by Iviegbepui and Ivianokpodi on both sides, the weather in Iviukhua and its surrounding communities is the most clement in the entire Estako East, Etsako Central and Etsakor West being situated up the hill that slops down to the River Niger in Agenebode.
A preamble of the Au Ukhua was showcased at the end of gathering of the South-West Chapter of the Union where there was performance of three masquerades as a warm up to what Ukhua people have prepared to show the world.
The event which took place at the K&K Event Center, Ojodu-Berger, was a double celebration as Senior High Chief (Dr) Kennedy Izuagbe also hosted the Lagos Branch of the Usagbe Club of Nigeria who gave award to their deserving members to mark the end of the tenure of the present executive under the chairmanship of High Chief Felix Oyakhamo.
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SHC (Dr) Kennedy Izuagbe describes Ukhua people as those who strive to attain the literal connotation of their name; ‘Ukhua’ which means ‘Greatness’. They do this by showing love at any given opportunity, foster unity and embark on self-development projects. The community has invested so much in the socio-economic development of their people in terms of promoting education and other human development projects.
Au Ukhua which holds every 26th of December, has been an exciting event, this year’s edition promises to be more exciting and engaging. The people plan to get visitors more engaged and connected with a cultural trade-fair where items that represent the history and culture of the people will be displayed
