By David Onwuchekwa
The Nnewi community in Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra State has officially flagged off the 2025 Afia-Olu (new yam) festival, a rich cultural celebration that holds deep traditional significance among the Igbo people.
The opening ceremony, held on Wednesday, August 27, at the historic Nkwo Triangle, Nnewi, was marked by colorful cultural displays, rituals, and empowerment initiatives.
Representing the traditional ruler of Nnewi, Igwe Kenneth Orizu III, the Crown Prince, Sir Obianaefo Charles Obi Orizu, performed the kola nut ritual, blessing indigenes of Nnewi at home and in the diaspora.
He described Afia-Olu as a symbol of gratitude for a bountiful harvest and an enduring heritage of the Igbo nation.
“Yam is the king of crops in Igboland. A man’s yam barn shows his strength, wisdom, and ability to care for his household and community. To see this yam today pyramid, I am proud of our people’s growth in farming. Agriculture has continued to sustain our livelihood in addition to industrial ventures,” he said.
The President General of Nzuko-Ora Nnewi, Hon. Jude Osumuoh, in his goodwill message, thanked God, the traditional ruler, and community leaders, while explaining that this year’s Afia-Olu was a testament to restored peace, unity, and love in Nnewi.
“United we stand, divided we fall. This year’s festival is power-packed because we are united. With our collective efforts, a better Nnewi is assured,” he said, noting that activities such as cooking competitions, wrestling, lectures, empowerment schemes, and awards have been lined up to make the festival memorable.
In his remarks, Hon. Peter Ifeanyi Uzokwe, Member Representing Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency, expressed gratitude for being part of the event.
He emphasized that Afia-Olu is not barbaric but a respected tradition handed down from the forefathers.
Uzokwe further announced the empowerment of 150 petty traders with ₦100,000 each under the scheme tagged “Fund Your Idea with One Hundred Thousand Naira” which he practically disbursed at the event.
He also pledged to continue supporting Governor Charles Soludo’s developmental projects in Nnewi, including the installation of solar streetlights.
The event featured traditional wrestling, cultural displays, and empowerment of traders, adding glamour to the festival and reinforcing its cultural relevance.
