Governor of North Carolina Declares June 14 As ‘Igbo Day’ To Celebrate Nigerian Heritage, Urges It’s Observance By All Citizens Of The State

Mr. Josh Stein, the Governor of the State of North Carolina, has proclaimed June 14 as Igbo Day in the state.

The governor’s proclamation reads:

Igbo Day, 2025

By The Governor Of The State Of North Carolina

A Proclamation

Whereas, there are thousands of Igbo people in North Carolina, some of whom have lived here for over fifty years; and

Whereas, the Igbos are committed to preserving and promoting their rich cultural heritage from Nigeria. Igbos in North Carolina are encouraged to connect, celebrate, and support one another, fostering a strong sense of unity, bonding, and belonging; and

Whereas, the Igbo community aspires to create an environment where their members thrive, traditions flourish, and their contributions to society are recognized and valued. 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; and

Whereas, in 2022, the Igbo North Carolinians established the nonprofit Igbo Day Festival Organization to unite and educate Igbo families and North Carolinians about Igbo culture, art, music, and traditional values; the first Igbo Day Festival was held on July 10, 2022; and

Whereas, 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; and

Whereas, 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, including those working for the State of North Carolina and the federal government, thrive in fields such as education, entrepreneurship, law, medicine – including roles as doctors, nurses, pharmacists – information technology, and art; and

Whereas 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; and

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

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.