Globacom, Nigerian telecommunications company, has reaffirmed its commitment to the sponsorship of cultural festivals across the country, including the notable Ofala and Ojude Oba festivals. This pledge was reiterated by the company’s Divisional Head, South, Mr. Tochukwu Okechukwu, during the 2024 Ofala Festival held at Ime Obi, Onitsha, Anambra State, on Saturday.
Okechukwu underscored the essential role culture plays in national development, emphasizing its ability to foster a sense of national identity by uniting people around shared traditions and values. “Culture influences education systems and drives creativity and innovation,” he said, adding that cultural knowledge improves critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. He also noted that a thriving cultural sector enhances a nation’s soft power, boosting its international reputation through diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange.
Further highlighting the economic potential of cultural industries, Okechukwu said festivals, tourism, arts, and crafts have the capacity to create jobs, generate revenue, and promote local products, thereby contributing to economic growth.
He also stressed the importance of communication in today’s interconnected world, saying, “Dialogue and connection are key to fostering understanding and collaboration. Our goal is to ensure that every voice within our community is heard, made possible through our affordable telecom services and digital solutions.”
Okechukwu assured attendees that Globacom remains committed to harnessing technology to benefit society. “We believe that innovation can enhance tradition rather than replace it. Connectivity strengthens the bonds within our communities, bringing generations together and fostering cooperation among all citizens. It is for these reasons that Globacom continues to support cultural festivals like Ofala and Ojude Oba,” he explained.
In his address, the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, expressed his appreciation for Globacom’s unwavering support of the Ofala Festival, noting that it has significantly raised the profile of the event. He also announced ongoing efforts to list the festival on UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, with support from the Ministry of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy.
The 2024 Ofala Festival, the 23rd since Igwe Achebe’s coronation, reached its peak with the traditional monarch’s grand appearance from his annual seclusion, where he performed a majestic dance around Ime Obi in full regalia. Palace chiefs and various age groups, including Ifedioranma, Ugoamaka, and Oganiru Onicha, also took part, dancing in colorful uniforms and paying homage to the monarch.
The festival’s 2024 edition will conclude with a Royal Banquet hosted by Globacom in honor of the Obi on Wednesday, October 23, at the Ime Obi.
