By Edwin Nwachukwu
Hundreds of indigenes and residents of Onitsha metropolis are expected to benefit from the Medical, Health, and Well-being Community Outreach ahead of the forthcoming Onitsha Ofala festival.
The Outreach is expected to begin on October 7 and continue through November 2, the period of festivity.
108Scoop.com reports that the Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, is the chief celebrator of the festival.
The outreach, which had been coordinated over the past three editions of the Ofala, by Dr. (Mrs) Rita Okolongi-Melifonwu, an experienced UK-Trained medical practitioner, will witness a series of events promoting health and well-being, from mere fever to some challenging medical issues like Diabetes, eye complications.
Also, there will be an Oreze Art Exhibition, a showcase of paintings, sculptures, and ceramics featuring works by Nigerian and African artists, as well as the Ofala Youth Carnival, a colorful street funfair showcasing Onitsha’s cultural heritage.
According to Mr Nn’emeka Maduegbuna, Chairman, Strategic Marketing and Communications Subcommittee of the Ofala 2025 the upcoming 2025 Ofala, the Festival aims to foster unity, promote resilience, and uphold enduring communal values that define the rich heritage of the Onicha Ado N’Idu kingdom, Onitsha, Anambra State.
He stated this during a recent press conference held on September 25, 2025, while describing the Ofala Festival as a celebration of the rich heritage of the Onicha Ado N’Idu kingdom, showcasing royal dances, tributes, parades, and music.
Maduegbuna notes that the purpose of the Ofala marks the Obi Achebe’s successful negotiation of the kingdom’s fortunes during seclusion and commemorates the discovery of yam as a food source.
He said that the Iru Ofala and Azu Ofala are scheduled for Friday, October 17 and Saturday, October 18, respectively.
Maduegbuna added that the Iru Ofala and Azu Ofala, which span two days, are the highpoints featuring the monarch’s parade and dance, as well as elaborate displays by age-grade societies in colorful uniforms.
He explained that this year’s festival promises to be an exciting experience, with a range of traditional and modern activities.
The theme for 2025 is “Njiko na Ntachi,” Unity and Perseverance, which emphasizes the importance of community and resilience.
