The Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Majesty Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, Agbogidi, has lauded indigenous telecommunications giant Globacom for its 15-year sponsorship of the historic Ofala festival, stating that the company’s sustained support has elevated the traditional gathering into a globally acclaimed cultural spectacle.
Speaking on Friday, October 16, 2026, at the Ime Obi (Palace Grounds) in Onitsha, Anambra State, during the Iru Ofala ceremony, the focal point of the two-day festival running through Saturday, October 17, the monarch paid rich tributes to Globacom for standing by the ancient kingdom since 2011.
This year’s celebration holds double significance, marking both the 15th milestone year of Globacom’s corporate sponsorship and the landmark 25th Ofala of Igwe Achebe’s reign. The 2026 festival was held under the theme “Igba Mbo, Iga N’Iru” (Strive and Advance: From Resilience to Progress).
Addressing dignitaries, traditional chiefs, and visitors gathered at Ezechima Square, Igwe Achebe emphasized how the long-standing corporate alliance has reshaped the cultural landmark.
”Their partnership has transformed the festival from a palace ritual to a world-renowned cultural festival that owes a great deal to purposeful partnership,” Agbogidi stated. “Since 2011, Globacom has stood with us as our principal partner, 15 consecutive years of unwavering commitment.
In good times and challenging times, Globacom has helped us preserve the authenticity of Ofala while enhancing its presentation, documentation, broadcast, and global reach. They have helped take a living heritage to the global stage.”
The monarch lauded the Chairman of Globacom, Otunba (Dr.) Mike Adenuga Jr., describing him as a visionary leader committed to Nigeria’s cultural advancement.
”I thank Globacom and its Chairman, Otunba (Dr) Mike Adenuga, Jr., GCON, a true man of culture, for his vision and belief that culture is not a luxury but a foundation for unity,” Igwe Achebe added.
In a goodwill message delivered during the festivities, Dr. Mike Adenuga Jr. reaffirmed Globacom’s commitment to supporting African heritage and community development.
”Our association with the Ofala Festival since 2011 has been much more than a corporate partnership,” Adenuga noted. “It has been a relationship which we cherish deeply and regard as a privilege. It gives us great satisfaction to join Your Majesty and the people of Onitsha each year in showcasing to Nigeria, Africa, and the wider world the beauty, dignity, and enduring values represented by Ofala.”
The Chairman of the Ofala Steering Committee, Chief (Dr.) Okechukwu Mike Areh (the Onya of Onitsha), noted that the 2026 itinerary extended beyond royal rituals to include the Oreze International Art Exhibition, the Youth Carnival, community health outreach programs, and traditional homage ceremonies during Azu Ofala.
Through corporate patronage and digital broadcasting support, Globacom’s 15-year involvement continues to strengthen Ofala’s standing as one of West Africa’s premier cultural festivals while advancing its documentation for prospective UNESCO World Heritage recognition.
