The Nnewi industrial community was agog a couple of days ago to celebrate its age-long annual event, Afia Olu Nnewi which is the community’s version of new yam festival.
The Chief host was Igwe Dr Kenneth Orizu 111, the traditional ruler of Nnewi and grand patron, Anambra State Traditional Rulers Concil.
Afia Olu festival is a significant event for Nnewi people as it marks the beginning of the yam harvest season and a time to give thanks to God for a bountiful harvest.
The event showcases the richness of Nnewi cultural heritage, the fertility of their land and resilience of the people.
The traditional ruler, Igwe Nnewi was represented by the crown Prince, Prince Obi Orizu surrounded by the Obi of Uruagu, Afam Obi (Ogidi IV), Obi Benneth Okafor, the Obi of Umudim (Amaukwu), Obi George Onyekaba, Obi of Nnewichi (Obidiugwu), the President General of Nzuko-Ora Nnewi, Dr Maduka Atueyi and his executive members for the 2024 edition of the event.
Addressing journalists at the event, the Vice President General of Nzuko-Ora Nnewi and the Chairman of the cultural festival for 2024, Prince Jude Osummuo said that the cultural heritage was not just a gift but a responsibility to be passed on to future generations.
He wished the people of Nnewi a joyous and memorable cultural festival, adding that it would be a true reflection of the community’s spirit. He also disclosed that over 2,000 people were empowered with palliatives during the festival.
On the rumoured crisis among the four quarters of Nnewi community, Prince Osummuo said Nnewi remained indivisible and united in love.
He thanked Governor Charles Soludo represented by the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Anambra State, Hon Don Onyenji for what he described as the massive development taking place in the State.
Prince Osummuo prayed that this year’s event would open new chapters in the lives of the indigenes and non indigenes for peace and progress in Nnewi community.
The event witnessed a roll call of illustrious sons and daughters of Nnewi both home and in diaspora including business moguls, captains of industry, technocrats, political heavy weights who graced the occasion.
Highlights of the event included cultural dance from the four quarters of Nnewi, masquerade displays wrestling, football match which prices were given to the lucky winners.
