Making Anambra cultural, tourism capital my govt’s vision – Soludo

Nnobi’s Ifite Ogbeadiji Ebenesi community in Idemili South Local Government Area became the centre of attention as it hosted its first-ever cultural carnival, earning praise from Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, for its contribution to the state’s tourism ambitions.

The historic event, held at St. Theresa’s field, showcased the vibrant socio-cultural essence of Ndi Nnobi and attracted a diverse crowd from neighbouring towns and the Diaspora.

Chief Hamilton Ezeonu, a prominent stakeholder and philanthropist, spearheaded the initiative, fully sponsoring the carnival to promote unity, celebrate talent, and highlight Nnobi as a rising cultural hub in Anambra.

Ezeonu, CEO of Hamthel Holding and HEX Consulting LLC, USA, and Director of Zybs Medical Group USA, emphasised his vision to foster peace and love through the carnival.

“This carnival is aimed at promoting the rich socio-cultural heritage of Ndi Nnobi, showcasing talents, and harnessing potential within the community. I single-handedly sponsored this to strengthen love and peaceful coexistence among our people, while putting Nnobi on the map,” Ezeonu stated.

His philanthropic record includes empowering over 50 women to start businesses, roofing the Ifite Nnobi Town Hall, assisting Okada riders, renovating the Nnobi General Hospital, providing security vehicles, and installing over 200 solar street lights. Ezeonu has also constructed boreholes, completed a one-kilometre road, and built the first police tower in Nnobi.

Soludo, represented by his Chief of Staff, Ernest Ezeajughi, praised Ezeonu’s contributions, aligning them with the state’s broader tourism and cultural development agenda.

“Making Anambra a cultural and tourism capital is central to our administration’s vision. Events like this contribute to our investment in Solution Fun City, Agulu Lake Resort, and the remodelling of Ogbunike Cave,” Soludo noted.

The traditional ruler of Nnobi, Igwe Nick Obi, underscored the carnival’s role in fostering unity and preserving Igbo heritage, encouraging other villages to embrace similar initiatives.

The Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Don Onyenji, along with Idemili South LGA Chair, Amaka Obi, and other dignitaries, graced the event.

Highlights included cultural dances, masquerade performances, and presentations of laptops, cheques, and empowerment packages.