By Ijeoma Agbafo
The Director of the Anambra Unity Festival (ANUFEST), Ifeanyi Eziukwu, says the upcoming festival is designed to promote unity, preserve cultural heritage, boost tourism and stimulate economic growth in the state.
Eziukwu made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Awka on Monday, noting that the week-long festival would hold from September 21 to September 27 across the 21 local government areas of Anambra State.
He said ANUFEST is aimed at celebrating the identity and heritage of Anambra indigenes while creating opportunities for youths, businesses and local communities. According to him, the festival will feature cultural displays, football competitions, theatre performances, tourism excursions and wrestling contests, among other activities.
He added that other highlights include innovation and entrepreneurship summits, creative exhibitions, entertainment events and community engagement programmes.
Eziukwu also disclosed that attractions such as the Ugokwesiri and Dike Anambra reality series, as well as the ANUFEST Unity Cup involving teams from all LGAs, would form part of the programme.
The director further said the festival would feature stage performances in honour of literary icon Chinua Achebe and Nigeria’s first President, Nnamdi Azikiwe. He noted that the grand cultural gala would include EKUMEKU, a performance by the National Troupe of Nigeria, directed by renowned playwright Prof. Ahmed Yerima.
Eziukwu expressed optimism that ANUFEST would generate significant economic activity across sectors such as hospitality, transportation, tourism, food services, media, fashion, event production, technology and small-scale enterprises. He added that the festival would also provide a platform for entrepreneurs, creatives and local businesses to showcase their products and talents.
He said the festival is being organised by JT Play Hub in partnership with the Anambra Ministry of Culture, Entertainment and Tourism and other stakeholders, adding that it is designed to position Anambra as a leading destination for culture, tourism, investment and creativity in Nigeria.
