Agbor, Delta – The Dein Royal Palace Secretariat in Agbor, Delta State, has officially released a notice marking the celebration of the 2025 annual "IwaiGi" (New Yam) Traditional Festival.

Issued on September 27, 2025, and signed by Chief Ogwun O. Benjamin-JP, the Ukpe of Agbor Kingdom and Head of Administration at the Dein Royal Palace Administration (DRPA), the announcement invites all villages, communities, and affiliate bodies of the Agbor Kingdom to partake in this significant cultural event.

The festival, a cherished tradition reflecting the rich heritage of the ancient Agbor Kingdom, has been graciously approved by the Monarch.

It is scheduled to take place on Thursday, October 2, 2025, across all communities in Agbor and at the Dein Royal Palace. The "IwaiGi" festival, akin to the Igbo New Yam Festival (Iri ji) celebrated widely across West Africa, symbolizes the end of the harvest season and the beginning of a new agricultural cycle.

It serves as a communal expression of gratitude to the gods and ancestors for a bountiful yield, a practice deeply rooted in the agrarian lifestyle of the region.

As per tradition, all identified communities within the kingdom are expected to present contributory tubers of yams as a gesture of homage and loyalty to the Monarch at the Dein Royal Palace before or on the festival date, October 2, 2025.

Additionally, other affiliate bodies and associations of Agbor extraction are encouraged to extend similar tributes. This ritual underscores the unity and reverence of the Agbor people toward their leadership and heritage.

The notice concludes with the Crown extending prayers and blessings to all subjects, both at home and in the diaspora, wishing them a happy and prosperous "IwaiGi" yam harvest festival for the year 2025.

The Monarch’s goodwill message emphasizes a bountiful and joyful celebration, reinforcing the cultural ties that bind the Agbor Kingdom.