Anambra Day Cultural Carnival in Abuja celebrates unity, heritage, and cultural pride with music, dance, and community spirit
Anambra Day Cultural Carnival brought the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, to life as the Anambra State Town’s People Association (ASTPA) hosted the 2025 biennial celebration with colour, rhythm, and pride.
This year’s theme, “Onulu Ube Nwanne Agbanaoso”—translated as “Do Not Hesitate to Rescue Your Brother in Times of Difficulty”—emphasised unity, mutual support, and cultural pride, which remain central to the spirit of Ndi Anambra.
The carnival featured traditional dances, masquerades, music, and native cuisine, offering a vivid display of the state’s cultural richness and tourism potential.
Guests enjoyed a lively atmosphere of heritage and shared identity that transcended ethnic boundaries.
According to Okoye Benjamin, Chairman of the Media Committee, and Charles Ekwuagana, Secretary of the Local Organising Committee, Ivemelumma na Nteje (Oyi) emerged as the overall winner, followed by Enugwu Agidi in second place and Awkuzu in third.
Other strong performers included Nteje, Achina, Nnewi, and Ezinifite, with Onitsha, Obosi, Ihiala, Ekwulobia, and Umueri completing the top ten.
Judges from the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO) assessed towns based on punctuality, attendance, costumes, cultural performance, and overall organisation.
In his keynote speech, Senator Ben Obi, Chairman of the occasion, hailed the festival as a powerful reminder of shared values. “Unity is the foundation of a strong community and the essence of this year’s celebration,” he said.
Chief Simon Okeke (Ochendo), Father of the Day and former Police Service Commission Chairman, urged Ndi Anambra to continue promoting peace and brotherhood.
Chief (Mrs) Christy Uba, Mother of the Day, commended women’s strong participation, describing it as “a true reflection of Anambra’s communal spirit.”
Welcoming guests, Sir Arinze Anadu, President General of ASTPA, thanked the Anambra State Government for its continuous support and commitment to peace and development.
The 2025 Anambra Day Cultural Carnival in Abuja stood as a powerful celebration of identity and resilience, reaffirming the unity, pride, and cultural strength of Ndi Anambra at home and abroad.