ANUFEST 2026 Targets Cultural Revival, Tourism Growth Across Anambra
ANUFEST Unveils Statewide Celebration of Culture and Identity
ORGANISERS of the Anambra Unity Festival (ANUFEST) have unveiled plans for a week-long cultural and economic showcase aimed at strengthening social cohesion, promoting the state’s rich heritage and stimulating grassroots economic activity across the 21 local government areas.
Speaking in Awka, the festival’s Director, Mr. Ifeanyi Eziukwu, said the event, scheduled for 21 to 27 September, would serve as a platform for celebrating the identity, achievements and cultural legacy of Anambra people while creating opportunities for young people, entrepreneurs and local communities.
According to him, ANUFEST is designed not merely as an entertainment event but as a strategic initiative intended to deepen unity and project the state’s cultural assets to national and international audiences.
Diverse Activities to Engage Communities
The festival programme features a broad range of activities intended to attract participation from different segments of society.
Among the highlights are cultural displays, football tournaments, theatre productions, tourism excursions, wrestling contests and community engagement programmes.
The organisers also plan innovation and entrepreneurship summits, creative exhibitions and entertainment showcases aimed at encouraging youth participation and supporting emerging talents.
One of the major attractions will be the ANUFEST Unity Cup, which will bring together teams representing all 21 local government areas. The event will also feature the Ugokwesiri and Dike Anambra Reality Series, designed to showcase local talents and celebrate indigenous values.
Honouring Achebe, Azikiwe and Anambra’s Historical Legacy
Beyond the sporting and entertainment activities, the festival will pay tribute to some of Nigeria’s most influential figures.
Special stage performances will celebrate the enduring contributions of renowned novelist and literary icon Chinua Achebe and Nigeria’s first President, Nnamdi Azikiwe.
The grand cultural gala will feature “EKUMEKU,” a major theatrical production by the National Troupe of Nigeria under the direction of renowned playwright Ahmed Yerima.
Organisers believe these performances will help preserve historical memory while introducing younger generations to important aspects of Nigeria’s cultural and political heritage.
Economic Opportunities Beyond Entertainment
Eziukwu expressed confidence that the festival would generate significant economic activity across several sectors, including hospitality, transportation, tourism, media, food services, fashion, technology and event production.
He noted that ANUFEST would provide a marketplace for entrepreneurs, innovators, artists and small businesses to showcase products and services to larger audiences.
Industry observers say large-scale cultural festivals increasingly serve as catalysts for local economic growth by attracting visitors, supporting small enterprises and encouraging investment in creative industries.
Positioning Anambra as a Cultural Hub
The festival is being organised by JT Play Hub in partnership with the Anambra State Ministry of Culture, Entertainment and Tourism and the Creative Law and Intellectual Property Finance Forum.
Additional support is being provided by African Heroes Magazine, the National Troupe of Nigeria and the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority.
Organisers say the long-term goal is to position Anambra as a leading destination for culture, tourism, creativity and investment while strengthening social bonds among communities across the state.
