By Praise Chinecherem
Anambra State governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo and Labour Party Presidential flag bearer in the last presidential election, Mr. Peter Obi are expected to attend the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Anambra State Council.
A statement signed by Assistant Secretary, NUJ, State Council, Mr Okechukwu Onuegbu, quoted the Council’s Chairman, Comrade Odogwu Emeka as saying that the duo would be Special Guest of Honour and Guest of Honour respectively.
According to the statement, the event, slated December 14, 2023 was targeted at celebrating the State’s rich cultural heritage in grand style.
The statement reads, “The festival tagged ‘Culture: Catalyst for Igbo Unity, Collective Advancement and Global Resurgence,’ the event being organised by the Culture and Royalty Committee (CRC) of the NUJ in partnership with Kasie Communications, an Event, Media and PR firm, holds at the Godwin Ezeemo International Press Centre which is behind the Central Bank of Nigeria headquarters by 12 noon.
“The festival is in line with Anambra State governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo led administration’s policy thrust aimed at celebrating, documenting and showcasing Anambra State’s rich cultural heritage to both local and global audience.”
Onuegbu, who doubles as the Supervisory Chairman of the committee, explained that the annual event has the blessing of Anambra State Traditional Rulers council some of whom have assured that they will lead their Igwe-In-Council and cultural troupes to grace the grand occasion.
The statement added: “The Culture and Royalty Committee (CRC) is a non-profit, socio-cultural arm of the NUJ, Anambra State Council, that is committed to mobilising Ndi Anambra at home and in the Diaspora for economic and socio-cultural rejuvenation; while capturing for posterity, our past, blended into the present and projecting into our future and, at the same time, recognizing and celebrating our past and present heroes.
“In addition, the committee engages in other activities aimed at promoting the culture, lifestyle, royalty and businesses of Anambra people. This year’s edition will feature lectures, cultural dances, arts, product and fashion exhibitions, masquerade performances, music, local delicacies, among others.
“As custodians of the age-long rich culture and tradition of Igboland, the Royal Fathers are expected to lead their Igwe-in-Council and cultural troupes to grace the occasion. Expected to grace the occasion are lovers of our tradition and culture from within and outside the state including illustrious sons and daughters of the State.
Commissioners of Culture and Entertainment, Information and Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community affairs are expected to attend.”
The Royal father of the day will be Igwe Umueri, Igwe Benneth Izukwukwu Emeka, while Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze and Ichie Pharm. Victor Okeke Mgbajiaka, Ichie Obidigbo of Enugwu Agidi would play the roles of keynote speaker and chairman of the occasion.
Commissioner for Culture and Entertainment, Chief Don Onyenji, and his counterparts in Information, Sir Paul Nwosu and Local Governemnt, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Ho. Tony Collins Nwabunwanne will be the Special Guests at the occasion.
