The Igbere Cultural Festival celebrates the ancestral heritage of 13 villages in Abia State, uniting communities through tradition and culture.

Eminent entrepreneur and politician Chimaobi Anyaso has lauded the annual Igbere Cultural Festival for its role in preserving and promoting the rich heritage of the Igbere people.

The festival, held in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, is sponsored by the OUK Foundation, founded by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu.

Speaking during the event at Amaiyi Village, Anyaso commended the former governor of Abia State for his unwavering support of the festival, which celebrates the ancestral practices of Igbere’s 13 villages.

The event showcases the unique folklore, traditional cuisines, dances, hospitality, attire, and language nuances of each community.

“This is a remarkable initiative to promote our forefathers’ culture, especially the positive aspects,” Anyaso said. “Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s efforts to unite the people and celebrate our heritage are commendable.

It’s a sacrifice that fosters reconnection with our roots and sets an example for others to emulate.”

Anyaso urged both the government and private sectors to increase investments in Nigeria’s cultural and tourism industries, emphasising their potential for substantial economic returns.

The 4th edition of the Igbere Cultural Festival, a two-day event, was held simultaneously across all 13 villages of Igbere: Agbo, Eziama, Amaukwu, Amakpo, Amankalu, Ibinanta, Amaofufu, Ibinaukwu, Umunsi, Okafia, Ohumola, Amaoji, and Amaiyi.

The celebration featured an array of traditional activities, including local food processing, wrestling, drama, folklore, poetry, lectures, dancing, and beauty contests.

Foreign tourists from the Republic of China also attended, enjoying the warm hospitality of the Igbere people, the pleasant weather, and the region’s scenic hilly landscape.

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, in a statement, highlighted the festival’s role in promoting unity, peace, and social interaction.

“The cultural splendour of the 13 villages was once again reinvigorated, leaving a lasting impression on participants. This event is a testament to our historical existence and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage,” Kalu said.

The festival not only strengthens community ties but also showcases Nigeria’s vibrant cultural diversity to a global audience, positioning it as a key event in the nation’s cultural tourism calendar.

Lagos celebrates tourism and culture with the Destination Lagos Awards 2024, honouring contributions to the city’s growth and development.

Today, Friday, December 27, 2024, Lagos will shine once again with the highly anticipated Destination Lagos Awards 2024 and the glamourous beauty pageant, Oju-Ibile Eko, taking place at the John Randle Cultural Centre in Onikan.

The event promises to be a spectacular celebration of the state’s cultural heritage, tourism, and the contributions of influential figures in the industry.

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This year’s awards come on the heels of the IPADA Initiative Celebration 2024 fiesta, which has captivated global attention over the past ten days.

The recent festivities included a host of exciting events such as the Lagos Boat Regatta 2024, where vibrant displays from Lagos’ five Ibile divisions dazzled audiences with intricately decorated boats, live performances, rowing competitions, and much more, leaving attendees with lasting memories of Lagos’ aquatic excellence and cultural vibrancy.

The Destination Lagos Awards 2024 is the brainchild of renowned tourism expert Apata Nunanyon Sampson, the Project Director and National Vice President of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN).

Sampson has worked tirelessly to position Lagos as a global tourism destination, and today, the event will honour the efforts of key stakeholders, including Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who will be recognised for his unparalleled commitment to the tourism sector.

Sampson praised Governor Sanwo-Olu’s visionary leadership, which has significantly contributed to the development of Lagos’ tourism sector.

“The Governor’s administration has been instrumental in promoting tourism in Lagos State. His vision for tourism development is unparalleled, and we are proud to recognise his efforts through the Destination Lagos Awards,” Sampson stated.

Today’s event will not only spotlight the achievements of individuals and organisations in the tourism and hospitality industry, but also celebrate Lagos State’s diverse and rich cultural heritage.

The activities lined up include cultural performances, an Art and Crafts exhibition showcasing the finest works of local artists and artisans, a Fashion Display featuring the latest trends in Lagos’ vibrant fashion scene, and a beauty pageant, Oju-Ibile Eko.

There will also be an exclusive performance by the Indian community in Lagos, adding an international flair to the celebration.

The Destination Lagos Awards 2024 will also provide a platform to recognise outstanding contributions to the growth and success of the hospitality sector, with awards set to be presented to key figures and organisations that have played a pivotal role in shaping Lagos as a global destination of choice.

Speaking ahead of today’s event, Mr. Diwesh, Managing Director of Donias and Head of the Expatriate Communities Committee for the event, shared his excitement for the unique opportunity that this occasion represents.

“The Destination Lagos Awards 2024 is a chance to showcase Lagos’ diverse cultural landscape and celebrate those who have contributed to its growth in tourism.

We are committed to making this event a resounding success and reinforcing Lagos’ position as a premier global destination,” he said.

The Destination Lagos Awards 2024 promises to be an unforgettable event that highlights the best of Lagos’ culture, tourism, and hospitality sectors while cementing the state’s reputation as the Centre of Excellence.

Samuel Nwajagu made history as the first African to win Mister International, taking the title in Bangkok, Thailand, on December 14, 2024.

Nigerian model Samuel Nwajagu has made history by becoming the first African to win the prestigious Mister International title.

The groundbreaking achievement occurred at the 16th edition of the global competition, held in Bangkok, Thailand, on Saturday, 14th December 2024.

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The event, which drew 47 contestants from around the world, saw Nwajagu rise to the top amidst fierce competition. His victory is not only a personal triumph but also a significant moment for African representation in international beauty pageants.

Nwajagu’s journey to the global stage began earlier in the year when he was crowned Mister International Nigeria in July 2024, securing his place in the Mister International competition in Thailand.

This victory was a result of months of preparation, dedication, and his innate charisma, which captivated both the judges and audiences throughout the event.

In the grand finale, Nwajagu went head-to-head with two top finalists: Nguyễn Mạnh Lân from Vietnam and Glenn Victor Sutanto from Indonesia.

The three competed in various segments, showcasing their modelling skills, physical fitness, and personality. Ultimately, Nwajagu emerged as the winner, marking a historic milestone for Africa in the realm of global pageantry.

The Mister International competition is known for its emphasis on not just physical appearance but also character, leadership, and social responsibility. Nwajagu’s win serves as an inspiration to aspiring models and young people across the African continent, reinforcing the importance of confidence, dedication, and hard work in pursuing global recognition.

As the newly crowned Mister International, Nwajagu’s victory is expected to open doors for further international opportunities in modelling and ambassadorial roles.

His achievement continues to raise the profile of African talents on the world stage, proving that Africa’s presence in international competitions is stronger than ever.