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From Kenneth Udeh, Abuja
The Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja came alive with colour, rhythm, and pride as the Anambra State Community Associations, under the umbrella of the Anambra State Town’s People Association (ASTPA), hosted the biennial Anambra Day Cultural Carnival.
This year’s celebration, with the theme, “Onulu Ube Nwanne Agbanaoso” translated as “Do Not Hesitate to Rescue Your Brother in Times of Difficulty” highlighted the enduring spirit of unity, mutual support, and cultural pride that defines the people of Anambra State.
The festival featured a rich display of traditional dances, masquerades, music, and native delicacies, providing a vibrant showcase of the state’s cultural diversity and its potential as a hub for cultural tourism and development. Attendees were treated to an energetic celebration of heritage, communal solidarity, and shared identity.
According to Okoye Benjamin (Chairman, Media Committee) and Charles Ekwuagana, an engineer, (Secretary, Local Organizing Committee), the top-performing communities at the 2025 edition were: Ivemelumma na Nteje, Oyi – First place; Enugwu Agidi – Second (257 marks);
Awkuzu – Third (251 marks); Nteje – Fourth (245 marks); Achina, Nnewi, and Ezinifite Joint Fifth (236 marks each).
Other towns in the top ten included Onitsha, Obosi, Ihiala, Ekwulobia, and Umueri, with scores ranging between 219 and 233 marks.
Judging criteria were based on punctuality (15 marks), attendance of men and women (15 marks), appearance/costume (10 marks), cultural components (15 marks), cultural display (20 marks), and raffle ticket payment/debt-free status (25 marks).
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The evaluation process began as early as 8 a.m., with officials from the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), Abuja, overseeing the counting and performance assessment of each town union.
The celebration drew a diverse audience of Ndigbo and non-Ndigbo, creating a unifying space that fostered tourism, friendship, and cultural appreciation.
In his opening remarks, Senator Ben Obi, Chairman of the occasion, said: “I stand before you humbled and honoured to lead this year’s Anambra Day Celebration. ‘Onulu Ube Nwanne Agbanaoso’ Unity is the foundation of a strong community and is a timely reminder of the values that bind us.”
Also addressing the gathering, Chief Simon Okeke (Ochendo), Father of the Day and former Chairman of the Police Service Commission, urged Ndi Anambra to continue promoting peace, love, and togetherness:
“Let the theme of this year’s celebration guide our actions. We must always stand for unity and brotherhood.”
Chief (Mrs.) Christy Uba, Mother of the Day, expressed joy at the large turnout and commended the enthusiastic participation of women, describing it as “a true reflection of Anambra’s communal spirit.”
Welcoming participants, Sir Arinze Anadu, President General of ASTPA, expressed appreciation to the Anambra State Government for its continued support and commitment to ensuring security and progress in the state.
The 2025 Anambra Day in Abuja reaffirmed the shared values of unity, culture, and collective responsibility that continue to define the spirit of Ndi Anambra at home and in the diaspora.
