Glo-Sponsored 2026 Ofala Festival Begins With Onitsha Youth Carnival

The 2026 Ofala Festival in Onitsha, Anambra State, has commenced with a colourful youth carnival sponsored by telecommunications giant Globacom, celebrating the community’s rich cultural heritage and paying homage to the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe.

The carnival, organised by the Onitsha Ado Youth Council (OYC) on Wednesday, October 14, transformed the streets of Inland Town into a lively spectacle of traditional music, colourful costumes, energetic dances and cultural displays, setting the stage for the series of activities lined up for the annual celebration.

Participating groups included Otu Odu Onitsha, Egwu Odu and Agbalanze, whose members entertained residents and spectators with elaborate traditional attire and captivating performances.

A major highlight was the appearance of young participants dressed to represent prominent traditional rulers, including the Obi of Onitsha, the Oba of Benin and the Ooni of Ife. Their costumes and performances underscored the importance of cultural preservation and the role of younger generations in sustaining Nigeria’s traditional institutions.

Following the street procession, participants converged on the old Ime Obi along St. Stephen Anglican Church Road, Onitsha, for fashion parades and competitions among the participating groups. The activities showcased creativity, traditional fashion and community spirit, reinforcing the festival’s significance as a celebration of cultural identity, heritage and unity.

The 2026 Ofala Festival will continue with the Iru Ofala on Friday, October 16, followed by the Azu Ofala on Saturday, October 17. Globacom is also scheduled to host a Royal Banquet in honour of Igwe Achebe on Wednesday, October 21, at the Ime Obi, Onitsha. The celebrations will conclude with an Ofala Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, October 25, at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church.

Globacom said its continued partnership with the Ofala Festival reflects the company’s belief that cultural heritage and connectivity are vital to national development.

According to the telecommunications company, Ofala goes beyond an annual cultural celebration, representing identity, continuity and collective aspiration. It added that preserving cultural heritage and advancing society are complementary objectives that can contribute to building a progressive nation.

The company also linked its sponsorship of the festival to its brand philosophy, “Never Settle for Less,” which encourages Nigerians to celebrate enduring values while striving for greater achievements.

Through its support for the Ofala Festival, Globacom continues to promote Nigeria’s cultural diversity, strengthen community ties and celebrate traditional institutions. The 2026 edition is expected to attract traditional rulers, residents, visitors and cultural enthusiasts as Onitsha honours its heritage and celebrates the reign of its monarch.