The Moshood Abiola International Stadium in Abuja was abuzz with excitement as the Anambra State Community Associations, under the umbrella of Anambra State Town’s People Association (ASTPA), organized a vibrant biennial cultural carnival.
The event, themed “Onulu Ube Nwanne Agbanaoso” (Don’t Hesitate to Rescue Your Brother at the Time of Difficulty), showcased the rich cultural diversity of Anambra State and promoted unity among its people. Our correspondent, Ekunkonye Junior, brings you excerpts from the spectacular celebration.
The Anambra Day celebration, organized by the Abuja Chapter of Anambra State Town’s People Association (ASTPA), typically features cultural competitions between town unions in the nation’s capital.
However, this year’s event saw an unprecedented turnout, with the Moshood Abiola International Stadium, Abuja, proving insufficient to accommodate the massive crowd that gathered to witness the spectacle. Despite the venue change aimed at managing the large attendance, the stadium was still overwhelmed by the sheer number of enthusiastic revelers.
The occasion serves as a platform for promoting tourism, attracting people from diverse backgrounds, including Ndigbo and non-Ndigbo individuals, who converge to experience the celebration. By encouraging events like this, the government can harness the potential of cultural tourism, fostering competition among states and tribes in showcasing their rich cultural heritage, which can, in turn, attract tourists and promote national development.
The 2025 edition, themed “Onulu Ube Nwanne Agbanaoso” highlighted the importance of unity and cooperation. The celebration featured a vibrant display of cultural rekindling, including music, dances, masquerades, songs, and native dishes. The event showcased Anambra State’s rich cultural diversity, demonstrating its potential as a hub for cultural tourism and development. The theme’s emphasis on mutual support and cooperation was reflected in the members’ collaborative spirit, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory.
In a keynote address, Senator Ben Obi, Chairman of the occasion, declared, “I stand before you humbled and honored to lead this year’s Anambra Day Celebration. ‘Onulu Ube Nwanne Agbanaoso’ – Unity is the Foundation of a Strong Community – is a timely reminder of the values that bind us. I commend the Anambra State Town’s People Association for orchestrating a meticulously planned celebration that promises to be unforgettable. Your dedication to promoting unity, rich cultural heritage, and communal values is truly commendable.”
He continued, “As we gather here today, we’re reminded that unity and togetherness are essential to our collective progress. Our state boasts a rich cultural legacy, and it’s our duty to preserve and promote it. Let’s celebrate our diversity and uphold the values that define us. The theme underscores the importance of unity in harnessing our strengths and overcoming challenges.”
Chief Simon Okeke (Ochendo), former Chairman of the Police Service Commission, offered advice during the celebration. He encouraged the community to continue fostering unity and promoting peace and love, allowing the event’s theme to guide their actions. Okeke also emphasized the importance of preserving their rich cultural heritage, noting that it defines their identity.
He urged parents to teach their children the Igbo language and culture, stressing that neglecting these aspects could lead to the erosion of their tribe’s identity. Okeke prioritized the preservation of their language and cultural heritage, believing it essential for their future. Additionally, he highlighted the significance of involving God in all their endeavors, stating that adhering to this principle would bring success in their various pursuits.
Chief (Mrs) Chris Uba, Mother of the Day at the event, expressed her honor at being part of the 2025 Anambra Day celebration. She praised the large turnout, noting that it demonstrated the community’s unity and solidarity. Uba specifically commended the women for their enthusiastic participation, describing their energy and contributions as invaluable to the event’s success.
She also applauded Ndi Anambra for rekindling the state’s rich cultural heritage, preserving and promoting its traditions. Uba expressed satisfaction with the event’s success and encouraged the community to continue celebrating their cultural heritage and upholding the values that define them.
Chief Basil Okafor, Ichie Dusogu III in Awkuzu, praised Ndi Anambra for their efforts in organizing the 2025 Anambra Day celebration, describing it as marvelous. He commended the organizers and noted that the massive turnout and cultural display were impressive. Okafor highlighted the potential economic benefits of such events, suggesting that they could motivate younger generations to invest in their homeland by showcasing the state’s rich resources.
He advised Anambra youths to maintain high standards and make the state proud, emphasizing the reputation of Ndi Anambra for diligence. Okafor also urged politicians and those in authority to do the right thing, reminding them that their actions would have lasting consequences.
He appealed to legislators to support cultural promotion through legislation and budgeting, noting that it would boost both culture and the economy. Okafor expressed hope that government intervention would further enhance the impact of such events.
Chief Vitus Ofodum, Ikenga Mbawsi and CEO of Vitek Engineering Company Limited, advised the Anambra community in Abuja to continue promoting their culture, encouraging other Igbo states to follow suit.
He also emphasized the importance of peace and unity, urging the community to prioritize these values for societal progress.
Sir Arinze Anadu, President General of the Association welcomed attendees to Anambra Day 2025, a celebration of unity, culture, and shared identity.
He expressed gratitude to the governor for supporting the community and providing security in Anambra State.
According to him, ASTPA is the Umbrella body for Anambra State town unions in Abuja, committed to welfare, empowerment, and cultural preservation of Ndi Anambra, and promotes development across communities
Anambra Day Celebration, he went on
showcases cultural wealth, unity, and values, and features dances, masquerades, attire, music, language, and crafts, with the aims to strengthen bonds and ignite pride in roots
He therefore said that ASTPA’s achievements, includes, embarking on empowerment initiatives benefiting town unions, youths, and women, developing ASTPA Model City in Ikem, Nando, to complement the state’s housing policy
– Recognized town unions for their commitment to dues and responsibilities
He therefore urges the governor to provide subventions to organized Anambra State associations in diaspora
and encourage continued support for the community’s growth and development.
Attcahed as sights and sounds during the event.
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