Globacom has rounded off the 2026 Ofala Festival in Onitsha, Anambra State, with a royal banquet in honour of the Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, alongside cash prizes, trophies and gifts for participating age-grade associations.
The banquet, held on Wednesday, October 21, brought together the revered monarch, members of his cabinet, Globacom’s trade partners and high-net-worth customers to celebrate the successful conclusion of the festival.
As the festival’s sponsor, the telecommunications company said the event reaffirmed its commitment to promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage and strengthening its relationship with traditional institutions and the communities it serves.
Speaking at the occasion, Globacom’s Divisional Head, South-East, Mike Ehumadu, said partnerships between corporate organisations and traditional institutions remained important to preserving Nigeria’s cultural legacy and sustaining traditions that define community identities.
He congratulated Igwe Achebe, the Ofala Festival organising committee and the people of Onitsha on the successful celebration, reiterating the company’s commitment to initiatives that celebrate Nigeria’s cultural diversity, foster community bonds and showcase the country’s heritage to a wider international audience.
The evening featured music, comedy and other cultural entertainment, according to a press statement issued by Globacom.
Guests were entertained by Aniweta Mazeli, Boy o Boy and the Groove Band, while comedian MC Ezegetive added humour to the occasion.
The performances provided entertainment for the royal household, community leaders and other distinguished guests, adding to the festive atmosphere of the gathering.
In recognition of the competitive spirit, discipline and communal solidarity demonstrated by the various Onitsha age grades during the festival, Globacom rewarded winners of the different competitions with cash prizes and trophies.
The company said the rewards recognised not only the achievements of the winners but also the collective pride and sense of belonging that underpin the Ofala tradition.
In addition, Globacom distributed hundreds of bags of special Basmati rice to members of the different age-grade associations.
The company said its continued sponsorship of the Ofala Festival reflected the role private-sector investment could play in preserving cultural traditions while extending the social and economic benefits of community celebrations.
The Ofala Festival is one of Onitsha’s major traditional celebrations, bringing together the royal institution, community groups and other stakeholders to celebrate the monarch and showcase the kingdom’s cultural heritage.
