Governor Stein of North Carolina State Celebrates Igbos

Josh Stein, Governor of the State of North Carolina, Declares Igbo Day

By Katherine Samfelix

One year after the historic proclamation on June 14 as “Igbo Day,” Governor Stein, on June 14, 2025, reaffirmed that declaration with a statement and celebration to mark a strengthening of bonds between the State of North Carolina and the vibrant Igbo community.

With traditional drumming echoing in the background and the colorful sounds of Igbo dialect filling the air, thousands of people gathered for the second official Igbo Day festival. The event showcased everything from traditional food and folklore to fashion shows and panel discussions about Igbo history, values, and their contributions to American society.

Governor Stein, addressing the Igbos said:

“The Igbo people have long been an essential part of North Carolina’s fabric. Today, as we reaffirm this annual celebration, we also reaffirm our gratitude. You have brought strength, diversity, service, and joy to this state.”

He went on to read a renewed declaration, symbolizing the state’s continued recognition and support of the Igbo community. The golden seal of North Carolina gleamed on the parchment as he held it up before the cheering crowd.

The Igbo Day was actually in recognition of over five decades of Igbo presence in North Carolina. Many Igbo Americans, originally from Nigeria, settled in cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham, and Greensboro. Over time, they have become community leaders, healthcare professionals, educators, engineers, and public servants.

Their invaluable role in building not only cultural bridges but also civic and economic contributions to the state cannot be underestimated. This year, those contributions were honored with awards for distinguished Igbo leaders and youth scholarships for cultural studies.

Dr. Chioma Eze, President of the Igbo Day Festival Organization, welcomed the Governor’s reaffirmation.

A workshop was organized that provided an opportunity to address preserving the Igbo language among second-generation immigrants and exploring intergenerational entrepreneurship.

For 9-year-old Adaora Umeadi, it was a chance to perform a traditional dance her grandmother taught her. “I love wearing my wrapper and beads,” she said. “It makes me feel like a queen.”

The governor’s reaffirmation established North Carolina’s growing reputation as a leader in embracing multicultural heritage. Stein’s administration has also recognized other ethnic observances, promoting a vision of unity without erasure.

Governor Stein joined hands with community elders for the closing prayer, a fusion of Christian and traditional Igbo blessings. The moment captured the spirit of the day—honoring the past, celebrating the present, and shaping a shared future.

“Igbo Day,” once a grassroots initiative, is now a shining example of what happens when identity is respected and inclusion is made policy.

With Stein’s continued support, this celebration of cultural pride has come to stay and shall even grow brighter

Katherine Samfelix is a Staff Reporter with Future World Magazine