By Kenneth Ojobor
All is now set for the 2024 Onitsha Ofala Festival of His Royal Majesty, the Obi of Onitsha and Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Alfred Ugochukwu Achebe.
A press release issued by the Ofala Steering Committee on Tuesday stated that the festival is scheduled to take place between October 18 and 19, 2024.
The Chairman of the Steering Committee, Chief Mike Areh, said the festival, themed ‘Courage, Perseverance and Self-Reliance,’ reflects the monarch’s message of hope and resilience amid the prevailing hardships in the country.
Areh, who holds the title ‘Onya Ozoma of Onitsha,’ stated that the theme of the Ofala festival resonates deeply with the indigenes’ resolve to overcome adversity.
He said, “As we navigate the challenges of our time, we draw inspiration from our rich cultural heritage and the timeless values of our ancestors.
“The 2024 Ofala Eze Onicha is a call to action, urging us to tap into our inner strength, collective resilience, and unwavering commitment to one another.
“We are proud to showcase our rich cultural heritage and promote unity among our people. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the 2024 Ofala.
“On behalf of the steering committee, we expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors of the Ofala festival, Globacom Limited, and International Breweries PLC (brewers of Hero beer) for their continuous support.”
He informed that activities of the Ofala will kick off on October 8, with the 2024 edition of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations/Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Obi Nnaemeka Achebe Annual Lecture.
The statement also said Prof. Pat Utomi will speak on the theme ‘Achieving Peace and Reconciliation in Nigeria: The Public Relations Approach.’
The statement added, “The 10th edition of the international art exhibition (Oreze) will commence from 16th to 21st October. Regrettably, the usual youth carnival organised by the Onitsha Youth Council will not be held as a mark of respect for the murdered OYC leader, Ernest A.B.K. Ofiah.
“This year, a medical, health and wellbeing community outreach will be introduced and will run throughout the festival.”
