North Carolina Governor Declares June 14, 2025, as “Igbo Day” in Honor of Nigerian Community

Governor Josh Stein of North Carolina has officially declared June 14, 2025, as “Igbo Day” across the state, recognizing the cultural heritage and lasting contributions of the Igbo people, one of Nigeria’s major ethnic groups.

The announcement was made through a formal proclamation published on the North Carolina state government’s website. Titled Igbo Day 2025, the declaration celebrates the Igbo community’s vibrant traditions, deep-rooted presence, and meaningful impact in the state.

“There are thousands of Igbo people in North Carolina, some of whom have lived here for more than fifty years,” the proclamation stated. It went on to commend the community’s commitment to preserving their rich cultural identity while fostering unity, support, and a strong sense of belonging.

Governor Stein noted that the Igbo community has established itself in various sectors—including healthcare, education, entrepreneurship, technology, and public service—and continues to participate actively in civic life. The proclamation highlighted their roles as doctors, nurses, pharmacists, lawyers, educators, IT professionals, artists, and government employees.

The governor also acknowledged the Igbo community’s numerous charitable initiatives: volunteering in local schools, adopting highways, supporting women’s shelters and hospitals, and organizing food drives and cultural performances across the state.

A key part of the proclamation credited the creation of the Igbo Day Festival Organization, a nonprofit founded in 2022 to promote Igbo heritage and unite families through culture, art, music, and traditional values. The group hosted its first cultural festival on July 10, 2022.

“This thriving community honors the rich heritage of the Igbo people while serving as a beacon of unity, support, and pride,” the document read.

Governor Stein concluded by encouraging all residents of North Carolina to join in celebrating the day:

“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.”

The proclamation was signed and sealed at the Capitol in Raleigh on May 21, 2025.