US state North Carolina declares June 14 as ‘Igbo Day’, says ‘They excel in various sectors’

The State of North Carolina in the United States of America has declared June 14 as Igbo Day to celebrate the culture, traditions, and people of the South-Eastern region of Nigeria.

Governor Josh Stein of North Carolina made the proclamation on June 12, describing the Igbo community as people “committed to preserving and promoting their rich cultural heritage from Nigeria.”

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Stein said Igbos have lived in North Carolina for over 50 years, contributing significantly to the state’s economy, public service, and civic life.

He said that members of the Igbo community in the state have excelled in various sectors, including education, law, medicine, entrepreneurship, and information technology, as well as in state and federal government positions.

“Through their collective efforts, the Igbo community aims to inspire future generations to embrace their identity and to foster a strong sense of belonging and purpose within North Carolina,” he said.

Their vision is to be a thriving community that not only honors and promotes the rich heritage of the Igbo people of Nigeria in North Carolina, but also serves as a beacon of unity, support, and cultural pride.

“They have volunteered in local schools, adopted a highway in North Carolina to aid cleaning efforts, supported women’s shelters and hospitals, organized food pantry drives, and participated in cultural performances at local festivals.

“Igbos in North Carolina are dedicated to ensuring the sustainability of Igbo culture by creating cultural awareness for future generations.

“Igbos in North Carolina are involved in many charitable causes and have contributed to the economy; they have participated in elections and excel in various careers.

Now, Therefore, I, Josh Stein, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim June 14, 2025, as ‘Igbo Day’ in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.”

The proclamation also acknowledged the formation of the Igbo Day Festival Organisation in 2022, a non-profit set up to unite and educate families in the state about Igbo culture, music, art, and traditions. The first festival was held in July 2022.

North Carolina is not the only US state to officially proclaim a day after the Nigerian ethnic group. Minnesota also recognised ‘Igbo Day’ on August 13, 2022.

Similarly, in 2023, Dallas declared October 7, as Yoruba Day, and Houston declared December 6 as ‘Yoruba Dagunduro Day’ in 2024 as well.