In a historic move celebrating cultural diversity and heritage, the U.S. state of North Carolina has officially proclaimed June 14, 2025, as Igbo Day, honoring the rich contributions of the Igbo people from Nigeria’s southeast region to the state’s cultural, civic, and economic life.
Governor Josh Stein issued the proclamation on June 12, via the state government’s official platform, recognizing the over five decades of vibrant presence and impactful contributions of the Igbo community in North Carolina.
“Igbos in our state have excelled in diverse fields including education, medicine, law, entrepreneurship, technology, and public service at both state and federal levels,” Governor Stein stated. “Through their resilience and dedication, the Igbo people have helped shape a more dynamic and inclusive North Carolina.”
The Governor praised the community’s commitment to cultural preservation, civic participation, and charitable service. He highlighted the Igbo community’s involvement in initiatives such as highway adoption projects, food drives, support for women’s shelters and hospitals, and participation in local cultural festivals, where they showcase traditional music, dance, and heritage.
“The Igbo community’s collective vision,” Stein added, “is to be a thriving cultural presence that not only celebrates their heritage but also fosters unity, empowerment, and pride among future generations. Their efforts are deeply rooted in ensuring the sustainability and visibility of Igbo culture for years to come.”
The proclamation also recognized the formation of the Igbo Day Festival Organisation in 2022, a nonprofit dedicated to educating North Carolinians on Igbo traditions, arts, music, and values. The group successfully hosted its first Igbo Day Festival in July 2022, drawing families and cultural enthusiasts from across the state. In his concluding remarks, Governor Stein declared:
“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.” With this move, North Carolina joins Minnesota, which officially designated August 13, 2022, as Igbo Day—further strengthening the recognition of the Igbo diaspora’s legacy in the United States.
