The state of North Carolina in the United States has formally declared June 14 as Igbo Day, paying tribute to the longstanding contributions of the Nigerian south-east community to the social and economic fabric of the state.

In a proclamation issued on June 12, Josh Stein, governor of North Carolina, hailed the vibrant Igbo community as a key part of the state’s multicultural identity. Stein noted that Igbos have lived in North Carolina for more than half a century, distinguishing themselves across a wide range of fields including education, medicine, law, public service, entrepreneurship, and technology.

“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,” the governor stated in the proclamation. “Through their collective efforts, the Igbo community aims to inspire future generations to embrace their identity and foster a strong sense of belonging and purpose within North Carolina.”

Stein also highlighted the community’s commitment to civic engagement and social service. From volunteering in schools to cleaning adopted highways, supporting women’s shelters and hospitals, and organising food drives, the Igbo population in the state has played an active role in strengthening local communities. Their presence, he said, reflects a wider vision of unity, cultural pride, and shared progress.

A key part of the recognition stems from the establishment of the Igbo Day Festival Organisation in 2022 — a non-profit created to preserve and promote Igbo heritage through education, music, art and cultural celebrations. The first festival was held in July of that year and has since become an annual event, drawing families and cultural enthusiasts from across the region.

“Their vision is to be a thriving community that not only honours 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,” Stein said.

With this proclamation, North Carolina joins a growing number of US states acknowledging the impact of Nigerian diasporic communities. In August 2022, Minnesota similarly recognised Igbo Day in celebration of the ethnic group’s cultural and economic contributions.

As North Carolina residents mark Igbo Day for the first time today, the declaration signals not only official recognition but also a reaffirmation of the state’s commitment to diversity, inclusion and the celebration of African heritage within the American experience. (BusinessDay, excluding headline)