By Monday Ajogun
The Strategic Marketing and Communications Subcommittee for the 2025 Ofala Festival in Onitsha, Anambra, says the Nigeria Tourism Development Commission (NTDC) has endorsed it as a major Nigerian festival.
Mr Nnemeka Maduegbuna, Chairman of the committee, disclosed this on Thursday in Onitsha, while briefing newsmen on the level of preparedness for the Ofala at the Obi’s palace.
Maduegbuna explained that the Ofala Festival is a celebration of the rich heritage of the Onicha Ado N’Idu Kingdom, showcasing royal dances, tributes, parades and music.
He also said that the purpose of the Ofala is to mark the Obi’s successful negotiation of the kingdom’s fortunes during seclusion as well as commemorates the discovery of yam as a food source.
According to him, since 2019, we have been pursuing key objectives to elevate the Ofala Festival to a major cultural event in Nigeria, West Africa and globally.
“Ofala Festival is a significant cultural event not just in Onitsha, but in Nigeria, and potentially international.
“Based on this, various commissions have come to the Ofala, and now the Nigeria Tourism Development Commission has endorsed it as a major Nigerian festival.
“The United Nation’s Word Tourism Organisation, has awarded the Ofala a certificate of recognition for excellence.
“As I speak, Ofala is processing an application to United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for recognition as a world heritage event.”
Maduegbuna also disclosed that the Iru Ofala and Azu Ofala, which will span two days, would be the highpoints of the festival.
He added that the days would feature the monarch’s parade and dance, as well as elaborate displays by age-grade societies in colourful uniforms.
“This year’s festival will be an exciting experience, with a range of traditional and modern activities.
“The festival aims to foster unity, promote resilience, and uphold enduring communal values that define our community,” he said.
He assured residents and visitors that adequate security would be put in place to secure lives and property during the festival. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Deborah Coker
