The 2025 Ofala Festival in Onitsha celebrates unity, resilience, and cultural heritage as Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe leads the historic celebration
The ancient city of Onitsha came alive in grand style as it hosted the 2025 Ofala Festival, an age-long cultural celebration that honours the traditions, unity, and resilience of the Onitsha people under the leadership of their revered monarch, His Royal Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha.
Now in its 24th edition since the monarch’s ascension to the throne in 2002, this year’s festival, themed “Njiko na Ntachi” (Unity and Resilience), drew guests from across Nigeria and beyond.
Onitsha, perched on the banks of the River Niger, transformed into a carnival ground as music, dance, and colourful displays filled the streets.
A Royal Spectacle Steeped in Meaning
The highlight of the festival came when the Obi of Onitsha emerged from his spiritual retreat — a sacred period of isolation, reflection, and communion with ancestors — to bless his people.
Dressed in elaborate royal regalia, Igwe Achebe performed his traditional dance to thunderous applause and chants of “Long live the King!”
In his message, Achebe urged Nigerians to remain united and steadfast despite prevailing national challenges. “Our theme last year was Better. Stronger. Together. That message remains as relevant today as ever,” he said.
Speaking with ARISE Television, the monarch explained the deep spiritual and historical roots of the Ofala Festival, which dates back over six centuries.
“Traditionally, the monarch lived in near isolation and emerged once a year to be seen by his people and to receive their pledge of loyalty,” he said.
He described his retreat as a time of total separation from the world — “sleeping on the floor, meditating with the ancestors and with God, reviewing the past year, seeking forgiveness, and praying for blessings ahead.”
Beyond its spiritual significance, Achebe noted that the festival now serves as a vital cultural and economic platform. “By bringing the world to Onitsha, there’s an economic side to it — lifestyle, tourism, and commerce,” he added.
National Leaders Honour the Monarch
The festival attracted high-profile dignitaries including government officials, lawmakers, and cultural icons.
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, praised the monarch for preserving the rich heritage of his people.
“Nigeria’s diverse cultures are not just historical references but living assets that can drive economic growth and define our global identity,” she said.
She added that the federal government is working to promote partnerships that enhance the economic potential of Nigeria’s cultural assets through tourism, creative content, and infrastructure development.
“The Obi of Onitsha has shown through his leadership that culture can coexist with progress. His devotion to education, tradition, and innovation is a lesson in how traditional institutions can contribute to nation-building,” Musawa said.
Tributes and Reflections
Also speaking at the event, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ben Kalu, commended Igwe Achebe for his exemplary leadership and dedication to cultural preservation.
“May this joyous occasion continue to bring love, peace, and fulfilment to families and communities in Onitsha and beyond,” he said.
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, who was present at the ceremony, described the festival as “a cherished celebration of unity and heritage.”
“It is heartwarming to behold the vibrant display of tradition that continues to define the identity of our people,” Obi said. “His Majesty’s reign inspires unity and progress. May the land of Onitsha continue to flourish in peace and prosperity.”
A Legacy of Heritage and Hope
As the drums faded and the colours of the 2025 Ofala Festival settled into memory, many observers noted that the event continues to evolve as a dynamic expression of cultural pride and social renewal.
With anticipation already building for the 2026 edition, the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Achebe, remains a towering symbol of continuity — a monarch who bridges tradition and modernity while keeping the flame of Onitsha’s heritage burning brightly.
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