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The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe has lauded technology giant, Globacom, for its unrelenting support for Ofala Festival, saying the company’s collaboration had enhanced the profile of the festival.
The monarch disclosed that this had gingered the kingdom to make a formal request to the Ministry of Art, Culture and Creative Economy to support ongoing efforts to enlist Ofala on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
This year’s event, the 23rd since the incumbent Obi of Onitsha ascended the throne, began with Iru Ofala on Friday and ended with Azu Ofala on Saturday.
The high point of the festival was the emergence of the Obi from his annual seclusion and his traditional majestic dance round the Ime Obi in his full regalia on the two days of the ceremony. His palace chiefs also danced to the “Egwu Ota” in turns after which they paid homage to the traditional ruler. Several age groups also ranging from the newest such as Ifedioranma, Ugoamaka, Oganiru Onicha to the much older groups, also danced round in flamboyant uniforms and paid homage to Igwe Achebe.
Globacom will host a Royal Banquet in honour of the monarch and to mark the end of the 2024 edition of the festival at the Ime Obi on Wednesday, October 23.
Meanwhile, Globacom has explained that its commitment to culture and tradition is its reason for sponsoring the Ofala Festival and other leading festivals across the land.
The Divisional Head, South, Mr. Tochukwu Okechukwu, who represented the company at the 2024 edition of the age-long Festival at Ime Obi in Onitsha, Anambra State, noted that Globacom acknowledged the critical role that culture plays in national development and its ability to foster national identity and bring people together around shared values, traditions, and history adding, “This cohesion can enhance social stability and cooperation”.
Said he, “cultural industries, such as festivals, tourism, arts, and crafts, could contribute significantly to the economy, create jobs, generate revenue, and promote local products. Culture influences education systems and can inspire creativity and innovation. Cultural knowledge can enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Moreover, a vibrant culture enhances a nation’s soft power, improving its international standing and influence through diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange”.
He added that communication was the fulcrum of human coexistence especially in an increasingly interconnected world. “It is through dialogue and connection that we foster understanding and collaboration. Our mission is to empower every voice within our community to be heard through affordable telecom services and digital solutions”, he said.
He also disclosed that technology was evolving at an unprecedented pace, and affirmed that Globacom was dedicated to harnessing its power to benefit society. “We envision a future where innovation does not stand apart from tradition, but instead enhances it. We believe that connectivity can strengthen the bonds within our community, bridging generations and fostering collaboration among all our citizens. Together, we can create an environment where our cultural heritage and technological advancements coexist harmoniously, enriching the lives of all. These are the reasons why we will continue to support our cultural festivals such as Ofala and Ojude Oba.”
