Cultural Resources and Socio-Economic Development in Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria, 1960-2015

This study focused on cultural resources and socio-economic development in Mbaise, Imo State, 1960-2015. The major cultural resources covered in this research are the new yam festival of Mbaise, Iwaakwa in some communities in Mbaise, Oji Festival in Ezinihitte Mbaise, Eyiri Eyi Obohia, and places of historical significance in Mbaise. The study was executed using both secondary and primary sources of data. The primary data covered the use of oral interview through which the researcher generates direct information from selected people in Mbaise, Imo state. The secondary data covered published information in books and journals concerning the subject matter. The study discovered that cultural resources in Mbaise helps in attracting lovers of culture, improving cultural acceptance, encouraging home coming and merry making. It was recommended that there is need for the Mbaise traditional council to utilize the media (radio, TV, newspapers and social media) for promotion of Mbaise cultural resources.