Hon Austin Manuel Jideofor backing the yam pyramid
By David Onwuchekwa
Chairman of the planning committee of 2025 Afia-Olu Nnewi Festival, Austin-Manuel Jidiofor, has described the annual event as highly symbolic, noting that it serves as a season of gratitude to God for prospering the works of the people’s hands, whether in farming, trade, or other enterprises.
Jidiofor disclosed that thanksgiving activities had already commenced with a service at St. Mary’s Anglican Church, Uruagu Nnewi, last Sunday, and would be concluded with another round of thanksgiving at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, Nnewi.
Speaking to journalists during the opening of the festival at Nkwo Triangle, Nnewi, Jidiofor said this year’s celebration was unique as it was being combined with a carnival.
“We have many farmers in Nnewi. How do we survive if we are not farming? The yam pyramid you see today was decorated by Nigerian Breweries, makers of Life Beer, who supported us tremendously. You can see the color and life everywhere. We are celebrating Afia-Olu and carnival together, and this year is different because I am involved,” he said.
According to him, several activities were lined up to make the 2025 festival memorable, including traditional wrestling, cultural displays, dance, cooking competitions, lectures, awards for the best farmer of the year, and musical performances by women groups from all quarters of Nnewi.
Despite financial constraints, Jidiofor acknowledged that the event was made possible through the support of individuals and organizations such as Ibeto Group, Nnewi Big Brothers in Lagos, and other indigenes and non-indigenes.
He expressed gratitude for their contributions, praying for God’s continued blessings upon their lives.
“This occasion was successful because of their huge support. I thank God for their lives and pray that He replenishes their pockets a million-fold,” he added.
