Susan Abayomi
Globacom has commenced its sponsorship of the 2026 Ofala Festival in Onitsha, Anambra State, with a colourful youth carnival celebrating the community’s cultural heritage and traditional institutions.
The carnival, held on Wednesday, was organised by the Onitsha Ado Youth Council (OYC) and featured various cultural groups, including Otu Odu Onitsha, Egwu Odu and Agbalanze. Participants dressed in traditional regalia and danced through the streets of Inland Town in honour of the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe.
The event also provided an opportunity for young people to showcase their creativity and celebrate the cultural identity of Onitsha.
One of the highlights was the appearance of participants dressed in elaborate costumes representing prominent traditional rulers, including the Obi of Onitsha, the Oba of Benin and the Ooni of Ife.
Following the street procession, participants gathered at the old Ime Obi along St Stephen Anglican Church Road, Onitsha, for fashion parades and competitions among the participating groups.
The festival will continue with the Iru Ofala on Friday, October 16, and the Azu Ofala on Saturday, October 17. A royal banquet organised by Globacom in honour of Igwe Achebe is scheduled for October 21 at Ime Obi, Onitsha.
The celebrations will conclude with an Ofala Thanksgiving service on Sunday, October 25, at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church.
Globacom said its continued partnership with the festival reflects its commitment to promoting cultural heritage and supporting initiatives that contribute to national development.
The telecommunications company noted that cultural preservation and connectivity could work together to advance society, describing the Ofala Festival as an expression of identity, continuity and collective aspirations.
Through its longstanding sponsorship, Globacom continues to support the celebration of Onitsha’s traditions while providing a platform for cultural expression and community participation.
