Igwe Achebe Hails Globacom's 15-Year Ofala Festival Support

His Majesty Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha, recently lauded Globacom for its steadfast dedication to upholding and advancing Nigeria's rich cultural legacy. The monarch highlighted how the telecommunications giant's continuous backing has elevated the Ofala Festival to a globally recognised cultural event. During the 2026 Ofala Festival, which took place on Friday at Ime Obi in Onitsha, Anambra State, Igwe Achebe specifically praised Globacom for its crucial role as the festival’s main sponsor, a collaboration that has now extended for fifteen unbroken years since 2011.

The monarch stated, “Their partnership has transformed the festival from a palace ritual to a world-renowned cultural festival owes a great deal to purposeful partnership. Since 2011, Globacom has stood with us as our principal partner – now fifteen consecutive years of unwavering commitment.” He further elaborated that “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.”

Igwe Achebe further commended the foresight of Dr. Mike Adenuga Jr., Globacom’s Chairman. He observed that Dr. Adenuga's dedication to preserving culture demonstrates a deep understanding of how native traditions contribute to reinforcing national identity and social unity. The monarch expressed, “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.”

Discussing the festival's theme for this year, “Igba Mbo, Iga N’Iru,” which translates to "Strive and Advance," Igwe Achebe characterised it as a powerful exhortation towards hard work, achieving distinction, personal growth, and communal advancement. He clarified that the theme encapsulates the resilient spirit of the ancestors who established the Onitsha kingdom along the Niger River. He also urged younger generations to uphold this heritage through industriousness, determined efforts, and a dedication to forward movement.

In his message of goodwill addressed to the monarch and the Onitsha community, Dr. Adenuga articulated that Globacom’s involvement with the Ofala Festival "since 2011 has been much more than a corporate partnership. It has been a relationship which we cherish deeply and regard as a privilege." He conveyed profound gratitude to Igwe Achebe for granting Globacom the chance to aid in safeguarding, celebrating, and broadly promoting the community's invaluable cultural heritage. He highlighted the festival's annual role as an important avenue for presenting the rich cultural customs, dignity, and lasting principles of the Onitsha people to audiences throughout Nigeria, Africa, and globally.

Through this enduring alliance with the Ofala Festival, Globacom consistently illustrates that responsible corporate behaviour encompasses more than just business ventures; it also involves protecting the cultural bedrock that defines communities, fosters their solidarity, and bridges generations.