Enugu is set to make history as it hosts the first-ever Igbo Youth Culture and Tourism Entrepreneurship Conference (IYC-TEC Enugu 2025) a landmark event aimed at empowering young people to transform Igbo culture and tourism into sustainable economic ventures.
The conference, themed “Heritage to Enterprise: Turning Culture and Tourism into Jobs,” will take place on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at the International Conference Center, Enugu, with a colourful roadshow scheduled for Friday, November 28 across key streets in the state capital.
Speaking during a press conference in Enugu, the Convener and Chief Host, Sir Chukwuma Harrison Okeiyi, said the conference is more than just an event it is “a movement to rebuild the pride, creativity, and enterprise of the Igbo youth through culture, innovation, and tourism.”
Organized by Ezi-Aha Entertainment under the Umunna Community Cultural Empowerment Initiative, the conference was inspired by the late Pa Uchenna Okeiyi, fondly remembered as Ezi-Aha Ka Ego, whose passion for cultural empowerment continues to inspire the vision.
He noted that, Registration for the event is free for all youths in Enugu, with a set capacity of 500 participants. However, those interested in the pitch contest where innovative, culture-based business ideas will be presented can register with ₦10,000 for a chance to win exciting prizes and gain exposure to investors and mentors.
The conference will feature a series of engaging sessions, including:
- Cultural Business Talks and Panel Discussions with leaders in culture, media, tourism, and fashion;
- Tourism and Creative Pitch Sessions for young entrepreneurs;
- Cultural Talent Exhibitions, showcasing Igbo arts, crafts, dance, and storytelling;
- Marketplace and Vendor Showcase for startups and local enterprises; and
- Awards Segment recognizing outstanding cultural entrepreneurs and innovators.
Sir Okeiyi noted that the Enugu edition marks the beginning of a larger vision that will tour the five Igbo states, with Abia, Imo, and Anambra scheduled for 2026, leading up to the Grand Annual Ezi-Aha Cultural Festival in Ebonyi State.
He emphasized that the initiative aims to raise over 2,000 young cultural ambassadors and entrepreneurs by 2026, using culture as a tool for economic growth, creativity, and social change.
According to the organizers, the IYC-TEC Enugu 2025 is designed to provide participants with skills in cultural entrepreneurship, tourism innovation, and digital branding, while connecting them with opportunities for mentorship, investment, and market access.
“The Igbo story must be told again but this time by the Igbo youth themselves,” Sir Okeiyi stated. “Through culture, we find strength; through entrepreneurship, we build sustainability; and through unity, we secure our future.”
He called on government agencies, development partners, and the private sector to support the initiative, describing it as a strategic pathway to youth empowerment, job creation, and economic rejuvenation in Igbo land.
With support from partners including Nani Boi Productions, Fortress Fabrics Ltd., Shelter Point International Agencies Ltd., and Omeiheuzu Storytelling Enterprise, the IYC-TEC Enugu 2025 promises to be a turning point for youth-driven cultural innovation in the South East.
All roads now lead to the International Conference Center, Enugu, on November 30, 2025, as the city prepares to host what promises to be a historic fusion of culture, creativity, and enterprise.
