Organisers say 2025 Onitsha Ofala Festival celebration of unity and perseverance
The organisers of the 2025 annual Ofala Festival in Onitsha, Anambra State, with the theme, “Unity and Perseverance’’ (“Njiko na Ntachi’’), promises to be an unforgettable experience, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the town.
A statement by the Media Team Lead, Ozonma Tony Neziany, said that it was all about the rich cultural heritage of the “Onicha Ado N’Idu kingdom’’ and would hold from Oct. 7 to Nov. 2, 2025.
Nezianya noted that Chief Nn’emeka Maduegbuna, the Chairman, Strategic Marketing and Communications Subcommittee, had at news conference said the Ofala marks the Obi of Onitsha’s successful negotiation of the kingdom’s fortunes during seclusion and commemorates the discovery of yam as a food source.
“Since 2019, we’ve pursued key objectives to elevate the Ofala Festival as a major cultural event in Nigeria and West Africa.
“Notable recognitions include: Nigerian Tourism Development Commission endorsement as a major Nigerian festival, United Nations World Tourism Organisation Certificate of Recognition for Excellence and Ongoing UNESCO heritage recognition bid.
“These underscore the festival’s importance in promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage. In this regard, we’re focused on expanding visibility and attracting diverse audiences and securing strategic partnerships to preserve and promote the Ofala’s cultural significance globally,’’ he quoted Maduegbuna as saying.
Nezianya said the festival would feature a range of traditional and modern activities including “Iru Ofala and Azu Ofala’’.
He said the high points of the festival was the monarch’s parade and dance, as well as elaborate displays by age-grade societies in colorful uniforms which would take place on Oct. 17 and 18, 2025.
“The Ofala Lecture Series: An annual lecture named after Obi Nnaemeka Achebe, to recognise his contributions to Public Relations and the Oreze Art Exhibition: A showcase of paintings, sculptures, and ceramics featuring works by Nigerian and African artists.
There will also be Ofala Youth Carnival: A colorful street funfair showcasing Onitsha’s cultural heritage; Medical, Health, and Wellbeing Community Outreach: A series of events promoting health and wellbeing in the community.
Also, there will be Ofala Thanksgiving Service; a thanksgiving service held to give thanks for the success of the festival and the monarch’s reign.
“We aim to foster unity, promote resilience, and uphold enduring communal values that define our community. We invite all Nigerians and international visitors to join us in celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Onitsha,’’ he added.
Nezianya said the festival was being supported by prominent partners including: the National Council for Arts and Culture, Globacom Limited, International Breweries Plc, NigerBev Limited, Zenith Bank and Guinness Nigeria Plc.
He listed the media partners to include: Arise TV/This Day, Afia TV/Afia Radio, Pop Central TV and The Ofala Mobile App which had been launched and is available on Android and iOS devices.
Nezianya explained that the app offers real-time updates, insights into Ofala tradition, multimedia content, and a seamless festival experience.
“The app connects attendees and well-wishers worldwide with the spirit of Ofala, blending cultural heritage and modern innovation.’’
Accreditation for the festival will commence on Sept. 25, and end on Oct. 2025, he said, adding that all media representatives are urged to adhere to established protocols and promote the festival’s message.
Nezianya advised anyone needing more information to please visit the Ofala website www.ofala.org or https://ofala.org/ or still contact: Ozonmma Tony Nezianya, Media Lead, Strategic Marketing and Communications Subcommittee.
