The Benue State Government has thrown its weight behind the Idoma International Carnival with the signing of a $15 million creative fund agreement, a move aimed at strengthening cultural revival, boosting tourism and expanding opportunities in the state’s creative industry.
The development was disclosed by the Director-General of the Benue State Bureau for Arts, Culture and Tourism, Shadrach Ukuma, the 2025 Idoma International Carnival held in Otukpo.
At the event, the paramount ruler of the Idoma people, His Royal Majesty, Och’Idoma Agabaidu Elaigwu John Odogbo, also declared December 23 of every year as Idoma Cultural Day.
According to a statement issued by the royal palace on Thursday, the declaration was made during the carnival as part of renewed efforts to preserve and promote Idoma identity. The monarch announced that the annual cultural celebration would be hosted at the Och’Idoma’s Palace every December 23.
“The Idoma Cultural Day would be hosted at the Och’Idoma’s Palace on the 23rd of every December going forward,” Odogbo said.
He explained that the initiative was aimed at reclaiming and strengthening the cultural heritage of the Idoma people, adding that there were plans to upgrade and rebrand the palace square to international standards.
“By the grace of God, working together in unity, having the same purpose and focus, we will achieve it,” the monarch said.
Calling for collective action, the Och’Idoma urged Idoma sons and daughters to collaborate with government and private individuals to deepen cultural development.
“Our strength lies in one cultural voice and umbrella. We stand to plan together, encourage our culture and excellence, not mediocrity,” he said.
The monarch also emphasised the role of cuisine in cultural identity, noting that Idoma culture is incomplete without its rich culinary heritage.
“Culture is not complete without food. Food carries identity. The Idoma nation has a history of very good food and culinary antecedence,” he stated.
Odogbo further directed that all Idoma cultural appellations be harmonised under Ochetoha Ki’Idoma, stressing that “we may have many expressions but one Idoma soul.”
He disclosed that the cultural day would evolve into a broader celebration running annually from December 21 to 23, with the grand finale at the Och’Idoma Palace. He also highlighted the historic significance of traditional dishes such as Okoho soup, describing it as a symbol of Idoma culinary excellence made from roots and a blend of spices.
The convener of the carnival, Edwin Ochai, expressed full support for the monarch’s declaration, describing it as timely. He said the Idoma International Carnival could help address youth restiveness and insecurity by creating jobs and economic opportunities through culture and tourism.
“Culture survives because communities practice it,” Ochai said.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Hyacinth Alia, the Director-General of the Bureau for Arts, Culture and Tourism said the Idoma International Carnival aligned with the state government’s vision for cultural revival and creative growth.
“We are not merely gathered for a carnival; we are gathered to affirm who we are as a people,” he said.
He noted that the Idoma nation is rich in heritage, with its language, music, stories, dances, festivals and crafts enduring the test of time. According to him, events like the Idoma International Carnival promote unity, preserve identity, create opportunities and project the people’s image globally.
The director-general also disclosed that the state government had signed a $15 million creative fund agreement to develop the arts and provide technical support to enhance the creative industry, assuring of the governor’s support for initiatives such as the Idoma International Carnival.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of a car gift by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, to the Och’Idoma; cultural performances by groups from Benue, Cross River and Bauchi states; and the showcasing of Idoma culinary heritage.
A major attraction was the Okoho soup challenge, where traditional rulers and participants competed to produce the most authentic version of the dish, with the Och’Idoma later announcing the winner.
Dignitaries at the event included the President of the Idoma International Carnival, Prince Edwin Ochai; President of Ochetoha Ki’Idoma, Professor Yakubu Ochefu; representatives of the Benue State Government; Chief Williams Obande; and several traditional rulers and stakeholders.
