Governor Josh Stein of North Carolina, United States, has officially declared June 14 as “Igbo Day” in recognition and celebration of the culture, heritage, and contributions of the Igbo people from Nigeria’s South-East region.
The proclamation, issued on June 12, highlights the Igbo community’s commitment to preserving their traditions and promoting Nigerian cultural values within the United States.
“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 governor stated in the proclamation.
Governor Stein acknowledged the lasting presence and positive impact of the Igbo population in the state, noting that many have lived in North Carolina for over five decades.
He praised their involvement in charitable work, political participation, and professional excellence across multiple fields.
“There are thousands of Igbo residents in North Carolina, many of whom have lived here for more than 50 years. They are active in charitable initiatives, have made meaningful contributions to the state’s economy, and excel in careers such as education, business, law, medicine, information technology, and the arts,” he noted.
In 2022, the Igbo community in North Carolina established the nonprofit Igbo Day Festival Organization to promote unity and cultural education among Igbos and the wider North Carolinian public.
The group focuses on showcasing Igbo culture, music, art, and traditional values.
The first Igbo Day Festival took place on July 10, 2022, marking the beginning of what has now become an officially recognized cultural celebration in the state.
