From Ijeoma John Nnewi
His Royal Highness Igwe Dr Kenneth Orizu 111 (JP,CON) Igwe Nnewi and Grand Patron Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council has celebrated the 2024 New Yam Festival known as Afia Olu at Nkwo Triangle,Nnewi.
Afia Olu festival is a significant event for Nnewi people as it marks the beginning of the yam harvest season and it is a time to give thanks to God for a bountiful harvest.
It is a testament to the richness of their culture, the fertility of their land and resilience of their people.
The Igwe of Nnewi, was represented by the Crown Prince, Dr Obi Orizu.
Prince Chibuzor Orizu (Agu Igwe) felicitated with the Igwe of Nnewi, HRH Dr KON Orizu 111, the Obi of Uruagu Nnewi (Ogidi IV), Obi of Umudim (Amaukwu), Obi of Nnewichi (Obidiugwu); the President General, Dr Maduka Atueyi, the Executive Members of Nzuko Ora and the good people of Nnewi on the occasion of Afia Olu Cultural Festival 2024.
Agu Igwe said their cultural heritage was not just a gift, but it is our responsibility to pass it on to the future generations.
He wished the people of Nnewi a joyous and memorable cultural festival, adding that it would be a true reflection of their community’s spirit.
Speaking with the newsmen at the festival, the Vice President General of Nzukora Nnewi and the chairman Nnewi Cultural Festival, 2024, Afia Olu, Prince Jude Osummuo disclosed that over 2000 people were empowered with palliatives during the festival.
Speaking on the four quaters in Nnewi community present at the festival, Prince Osumuo said Nnewi remained an indivisible people who are united in love.
He thanked Governor Soludo represented by the Hon Don Onyenji, the Commissioner for Cullture, Entertainment and Tourism Anambra State for the massive development taking place in Anambra State.
Hon Osummuo prayed that this year’s New Yam festival would open new chapters in the lives of the Indigenes and non indigenes of Nnewi Community.
Some of the dignitaries present at the occasion were, the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism Anambra State, Hon Don Onyenji,illustrious sons and daughters of Nnewi, Hon Augustine Ike (Ikedoji) Member representìng Anambra House of Assembly, and many others.
Highlights of the event included the cultural dance from the 4 quaters in Nnewi, masquerade displays, wrestling, football match which prices were given to the lucky winners.