Igwe Achebe to host 2025 Ofala festival in grand style

By Julie Sylvia, Onitsha

The arrangements for the celebration of the 2025 Ofala festival of the Obi of Onitsha, Anambra State, HRM, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe which is to be held on 17th and 18th October this year at Ime Obi Onitsha, Ezechima Square, Onitsha are in top gear.

The Chairman Strategic Marketing and Communication Subcommittee, Chief Nnaemeka Maduegbuna while addressing Newsmen on the preparedness for the Ofala Festival said that the 2025 Ofala Festival, was a significant cultural event not just in Onitsha, but in Nigeria, and potentially international.

“The Ofala Festival is a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the Onicha Ado N’Idu kingdom, showcasing royal dances, tributes, parades, and music. The purpose of the Ofala is twofold: it marks the Obi’s successful negotiation of the kingdom’s fortunes during seclusion and commemorates the discovery of yam as a food source.

“The Iru Ofala and Azu Ofala which span two days are the highpoints featuring the monarch’s parade and dance, as well as elaborate displays by age-grade societies in colorful uniforms.

“This year’s festival promises to be an exciting experience, with a range of traditional and modern activities. Our theme for 2025, “Njiko na Ntachi,” , Unity and Perseverance, emphasizes the importance of community and resilience.

“We aim to foster unity, promote resilience, and uphold enduring communal values that define our community. The 2025 Iru Ofala and Azu Ofala is scheduled for Friday, October 17 and Saturday, October 18, respectively.
However, the festival activities commences on October 7 till
November 2, 2025,” he stated.

According to Maduegbuna other events include, Ofala Lecture Series, an annual lecture series named after Obi Nnaemeka Achebe, recognizing his contributions to public relations.Oreze Art exhibition, a showcase of paintings, sculptures, and ceramics featuring works by Nigerian and African artists.

He disclosed further that Ofala Youth Carnival, is a colorful street funfair showcasing Onitsha’s cultural heritage that will include, Medical, Health, and Wellbeing Community Outreach, a series of events promoting health and wellbeing in the community.

Maduegbuna added that there will be Ofala thanksgiving Service in honour of the success of the festival and the monarch’s reign.

Among those in partnership/sponsors of the Ofala festival include, globacom, ably represented by Mr Sola Mogaji, (senior manager, events ), Olise Rufus Chinedu, of International Breweries, (events manager) and Obinna Eleanya who represents Zenith bank plc, all expressed satisfaction with the Onitsha Ofala festival describing it as an age long cultural heritage of the people.

Those who graced the occasion included, Osuma of Onitsha who is the vice chairman of the steering committee, among others.

Pic shows group photogragh during the press briefing