In a landmark recognition of cultural diversity and immigrant contributions, the U.S. state of North Carolina has officially proclaimed June 14, 2025, as “Igbo Day,” honoring the Igbo people of Nigeria for their rich cultural heritage and impactful presence in the state.
The proclamation was signed by Governor Josh Stein, who praised the Igbo community’s over five-decade presence in North Carolina and their enduring commitment to unity, civic engagement, and public service.
“Igbos in North Carolina are encouraged to connect, celebrate, and support one another, fostering a strong sense of unity, bonding, and belonging,” the governor stated in the declaration.
The announcement also highlighted the role of the Igbo Day Festival Organization, a nonprofit formed in 2022, which has become a central hub for promoting Igbo culture, art, music, and values to both the Igbo diaspora and the broader North Carolinian public.
According to the proclamation, the Igbo community has shown remarkable dedication to community service, including volunteering in schools, women’s shelters, hospitals, and food pantries. They’ve also made significant strides in education, law, medicine, entrepreneurship, IT, and public service, cementing their position as valuable contributors to both state and national development.
Governor Stein emphasized that the recognition of Igbo Day reflects North Carolina’s commitment to cultural inclusion and celebrates the vital role of the Igbo diaspora in enriching the social and economic fabric of American society.
The declaration is being hailed by the Igbo community as a historic moment—a platform for fostering cultural pride, generational legacy, and stronger civic participation among Igbos in the U.S.
