The upcoming 2025 Ofala 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, according to Nn’emeka Maduegbuna, Chairman, Strategic Marketing and Communications Subcommittee.
He stated this during a recent press conference, 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.
According to him, the purpose of the Ofala marks the Obi’s successful negotiation of the kingdom’s fortunes during seclusion and commemorates the discovery of yam as a food source.
108Scoop.com reports that the Iru Ofala and Azu Ofala are scheduled for Friday, October 17 and Saturday, October 18, respectively.
However, 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. Our theme for 2025, “Njiko na Ntachi,” Unity and Perseverance emphasizes the importance of community and resilience.
Maduegbuna, however, said the festival activities commences on October 7 till November 2, 2025, and includes other events such as:
• The Ofala Lecture Series, an annual lecture series named after Obi Nnaemeka Achebe, recognizing his contributions to public relations.
• Oreze Art Exhibition, a showcase of paintings, sculptures, and ceramics featuring works by Nigerian and African artists.
• 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.
On Ofala Thanksgiving Service, he said, a thanksgiving service would be held to give thanks for the success of the festival and the monarch’s reign.
Actual dates are provided in the Ofala 2025 Media kit which is available on the Ofala website https://ofala.org/
Elevating the Ofala festival, Maduegbuna stated that 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
• 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 a diverse audience
• Securing strategic partnerships to preserve and promote Ofala’s cultural significance globally.
Concerning partnership, we are collaborating with prominent organizations, including the National Council for Arts and Culture, Globacom Limited, NigerBev Limited,
Guinness Nigeria Plc Zenith Bank, and International Breweries PLC, to support the festival. Our media partners include Arise TV/This Day, Afia TV/Afia Radio, and Pop Central TV.
The Ofala Mobile App
We are excited to announce the launch of our mobile app, available now on both Android and iOS devices. This innovative platform brings the festival closer to participants and the global community, offering:
– Real-time updates and announcements
– Insights into Ofala tradition and heritage
– Multimedia content: photos, videos, and live updates
– Seamless festival experience: maps, guides, and notifications
Download Now:
– Android: Google Play
– iOS: App Store
The Ofala Mobile App embodies the festival’s blend of cultural heritage and modern innovation, connecting attendees and well-wishers worldwide with the spirit of Ofala.
