The 2026 Ofala Festival of Onitsha, one of Nigeria’s foremost traditional and cultural celebrations, will hold next week with Globacom, Nigeria’s indigenous telecommunications company, as the official sponsor.
Globacom said it has renewed its commitment to preserving, promoting and projecting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage through its continued partnership with the historic festival, a relationship that has lasted for more than 15 years.
The 2026 edition marks the 25th Ofala of the reign of the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, and is themed “Igba Mbo, Iga N’Iru – Strive and Advance: From Resilience to Progress.”
According to Globacom, the theme reflects the history of Ndi Onicha, characterised by resilience, enterprise, adaptation and an enduring determination to advance.
In a statement, the company said its sustained association with Ofala was driven by the belief that culture remains an important instrument of national development alongside connectivity.
“For Globacom, Ofala is far more than an annual cultural celebration. It is a living expression of identity, continuity and collective aspiration,” the company said.
Globacom said its partnership with the festival reflected its belief that preserving cultural heritage and advancing society were complementary objectives.
The company linked the partnership to its “Never Settle for Less” philosophy, saying the campaign represents a commitment to honouring worthy foundations while continually seeking greater possibilities and broader impact.
Ofala, which has evolved from a sacred rite of royal renewal into a major platform for cultural affirmation, community engagement and collective progress, will feature several activities during the celebration.
Highlights of the festival include the Obi’s sacred period of seclusion and ceremonial emergence, the Medical, Health and Wellbeing Community Outreach, the international Oreze Art Exhibition, the Youth Carnival, and the Iru Ofala and Azu Ofala ceremonies.
Globacom said its support for the festival goes beyond conventional corporate sponsorship, describing it as an expression of corporate citizenship and cultural stewardship.
The telecommunications company said the partnership was also consistent with its broader efforts to promote telecommunications access, innovation and digital inclusion, arguing that, just as Ofala draws strength from ancestral foundations while looking towards the future, technology can connect Nigerians to new opportunities.
The company reaffirmed its pride in supporting an institution that, in its words, “honours its roots while engaging the future.”
