Asagba Azinge Applauds OFAAC @20th Anioma Cultural Festival
Royal Endorsement at Landmark Cultural Event
THE 20th Anioma Cultural Festival drew commendation from traditional authorities as His Royal Majesty, Epiphany Azinge, lauded the organisers for sustaining and promoting Anioma heritage. The festival, organised by the Organization for the Advancement of Anioma Culture, was held at St. Patrick’s College on 6 April 2026.
Azinge, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, described the event as a vital platform for preserving cultural identity and fostering unity, noting that the theme, “Culture, A Tool for Development,” reflects the growing recognition of culture as a driver of socio-economic progress.
Celebrating Heritage Through Arts and Performance
The festival featured a rich array of traditional displays, including cultural dances, indigenous music, masquerade performances, and art exhibitions. These activities highlighted the diversity and vibrancy of Anioma traditions, drawing participants and spectators from across Delta State and beyond.
Observers noted that the event not only served as entertainment but also as an educational platform, particularly for younger generations, reinforcing the importance of preserving indigenous values in a rapidly modernising society.
Commendation for Organisers
The Asagba specifically praised Kester Ifeadi and the festival planning committee for their organisational efforts. He acknowledged their commitment to sustaining the annual event over two decades, describing it as a testament to dedication toward cultural advancement.
According to him, initiatives such as the Anioma Cultural Festival contribute significantly to strengthening community bonds while promoting tourism and creative industries within the region.
Culture as a Development Tool
Stakeholders at the event emphasised the broader relevance of cultural festivals in national development. Beyond showcasing heritage, such gatherings provide opportunities for economic activity, networking, and cultural exchange.
The Anioma Cultural Festival, now in its 20th edition, continues to position itself as a key cultural event in Nigeria’s calendar, reinforcing the role of tradition in shaping identity and fostering inclusive development.
