In the sacred traditions of Igbo land, the throne of EzeNri is not taken by power or force, but by destiny, character, and the will of the people, guided by the ancestors.

Today, many sons of the land look with hope and pride towards Oba Chukwudi Nwokoye, a man whose dignity, wisdom, and respect for culture reflect the true spirit of the ancient Nri Kingdom.

Though the crown has not yet been placed upon his head, the signs of leadership, humility, and devotion to tradition surround him. In the eyes of many elders and sons and daughters of Nri, Alokwueche stands as a worthy son of the soil — one whose heart beats with the culture, peace, and sacred heritage of our forefathers.

The throne of Nri represents truth, justice, and spiritual authority over the land. And as the drums of tradition continue to sound, the people already know that the right man has risen to uphold the honor of the kingdom.

May the ancestors continue to guide the process, and may divine wisdom continue to lead the elders, since destiny has chosen the man who is poised to uphold the honor and dignity of the kingdom.

Igbo kwenu!
Nri kwenu!

Culture lives on, as destiny itself has chosen the rightful Eze Nri.

The Federal Government has postponed the 2025 National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST), earlier scheduled to open today in Enugu, citing heightened insecurity and the prevailing national mood.

The announcement was issued yesterday in Abuja by the Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Nneka Anibeze, following consultations with stakeholders.

According to the ministry, proceeding with the festival at a time of widespread grief would be insensitive, despite the readiness of more than 28 participating states already in Enugu.

“NAFEST is a unifying platform that showcases Nigeria’s cultural diversity and soft power. The decision to postpone reflects empathy and respect for affected families across the country,” the statement read.

The ministry noted that a new date will be communicated after further engagements with state delegations and security agencies.

It assured that the federal government remains committed to strengthening national cohesion through cultural exchange when conditions improve.

The Enugu State Government has formally constituted a Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the hosting of the 2025 National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST), scheduled to take place in Enugu from November 22 to 29, 2025.

Governor Peter Mbah, who inaugurated the committee on Monday, charged its members to deliver a world-class, top-notch, and memorable cultural festival that would highlight the state’s rich cultural heritage, artistic excellence, and unique tourism attractions.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the governor emphasised the need for meticulous planning, proper coordination, and speedy execution of all preparatory activities.

He urged the committee to ensure that Enugu presents a befitting image worthy of its reputation as a peaceful, vibrant, and culturally rich state.

According to the terms of reference read by Onyia, the committee is mandated to plan, organise, and implement all activities leading to and during the hosting of NAFEST 2025, in line with the theme and objectives of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC).

The LOC is expected to coordinate all sub-committees and stakeholders involved in the festival, handle logistics, publicity, hospitality, and security, as well as showcase Enugu’s cultural and tourism assets to both national and international audiences. It will also liaise with the NCAC and other national bodies to ensure seamless collaboration and efficient delivery.

Other responsibilities include developing a comprehensive work plan and timeline for the event, overseeing venue preparation, accommodation, transportation, and welfare arrangements, as well as managing sponsorships, media relations, and branding. The committee will also ensure the safety and security of participants and visitors throughout the festival period.

The LOC, which will function under the supervision of the Commissioner for Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr. Ugochi Madueke, comprises representatives from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Ministry of Information and Communication, the NCAC Enugu Office, the Enugu State Tourism Board, the Enugu State Council for Arts and Culture, the Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS), relevant government agencies, private sector representatives, and cultural stakeholders.

Responding on behalf of the committee, Madueke expressed gratitude to the governor for the confidence reposed in the members, assuring that the committee would deliver excellent results and create an unforgettable experience for all participants and visitors.

She noted that the 2025 NAFEST in Enugu would not only strengthen national unity through culture but also project the state as a leading destination for arts, culture, and tourism in Nigeria.

Members of the committee include the Commissioner for Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr. Ugochi Madueke; Commissioner for Information and Communication, Dr. Malachy Agbo; Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Barr. Lloyd Ekweremadu; Chairman, Enugu State Post Primary School Management Board, Rev. Fr. Chinedu Mgbodile; SSA to the Governor on Media, Hon. Dan Nwomeh; SSA to the Governor on External Relations, Hon. Uche Anichukwu; General Manager, Enugu State Structures for Signage and Advertising Agency, Hon. Francis Aninwike; Director of Culture and Cultural Dialogue, Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, Dr. Ozo Ferdinand Anikwe; SA to the Governor on Research and Publication, Barr. Joshua Ejeh; and former Executive Secretary, Enugu State Council for Arts and Culture, Chief Izueke Eddie Okolo.

Others are SSA to the Governor on Revenue, Hon. Adenike Okebu; SSA to the Governor on Legal Matters, Hon. Juliet Okonkwo; SA to the Governor on Revenue Mobilisation, Hon. Sandra George; representatives of the NCAC, Dr. Pamela Agu and Dr. Chioma Emeafor; Vice President, Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (South East), Mr. Wilson Uche Ugwu; Curator, National Museum of Unity, Enugu, Aloysius Duru; Curator, National Gallery of Arts, Enugu, Patricia Nkwocha; Chief Heritage Officer, National Museum of Unity, Enugu, Dr. Ijeoma Onyejekwe; Executive Director, Centre for Memories, Iheanyi Igboko; HOD Creative Arts, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Charles Eze; and HOD Performing Arts, Enugu State Council for Arts and Culture, Florence Igboneku, among others.

The Executive Secretary, Enugu State Council for Arts and Culture, Hon. Laurence Ani, will serve as the Secretary of the committee.

…examining the quiet strength of a woman who builds others

By lFEANYI NDUKWE (SAINT), ONITSHA

From the roots of the Nri clan came the birth cry of an Amazon over four decades ago. That marked the beginning of a bearer of light into the community. We are honoured to detail in small quantity of a great Amazon in the person of Iyom Chief Mrs Joy Egolum.

In an age where power often shouts and pride seeks applause, Iyom Chief (Mrs.) Joy O. Egolum stands as a gentle storm. She is calm, firm, and deeply influential. Her story is not one of noise or self-display, but of substance. A woman whose footprints echo through service, family devotion, philanthropy, and an unyielding sense of purpose.

Interestingly she was born with an instinct for leadership and a heart tuned to humanity, Iyom Joy Egolum rose steadily through life’s ladder. She didn’t rise by chance, but by choice, discipline, and grace.

She mastered the delicate balance between ambition and humility, between public service and private integrity.

As the South East Corporate Affairs Manager, NB PLC, her career marked by diligence and distinction, reflects a woman who understands that leadership is not about titles, but about transforming lives and lifting others to their rightful heights.

What defines Iyom Chief (Mrs.) Egolum most profoundly is her philanthropy (quiet, consistent, and far-reaching). Her gestures go beyond charity; they are expressions of empathy. She has supported widows with dignity, empowered women through skill acquisitions, offered scholarships to indigent students, and extended a motherly hand to orphans and the less privileged. For her, giving is not an act of showmanship but a duty born out of compassion. No wonder the Enugu state government through the office of the First Lady gave her recognition awards.

Her philanthropic spirit has become a beacon for many, particularly women who have found in her A ROLE MODEL of what strength in femininity truly means. In a society that often undervalues women’s contributions, Iyom Joy Egolum stands as a testament that being female is not a limitation but a DIVINE CALL TO NURTURE, influence, and lead.

Behind every great achievement of hers lies a foundation built on love and family. Iyom is a devoted wife, mother, and matriarch, she embodies the saying that “charity begins at home.”

Her home radiates the same warmth she extends to her community, a sanctuary of discipline, love, and understanding to her children and those she mentors, she is both a teacher and a friend; to her husband, a true partner and confidant.

Her ability to harmonize family responsibilities with professional excellence is a quiet victory; one that many women admire and draw strength from. In her, we see a reflection of resilience and grace, a woman who bends under pressure but never breaks.

Iyom Joy Odogwu Egolum’s life hasn’t been without trials. Like gold refined in fire, she has faced storms; social expectations, professional challenges, and the unique pressures that come with being a woman in leadership.

Yet, she turned every challenge into a steppingstone. Her story is one of endurance rewarded with purpose. Every setback only refined her wisdom, deepened her empathy, and strengthened her resolve to serve.

From her early days in service where she distinguished herself as a woman of integrity and administrative excellence to her later years of community leadership and philanthropy.

Iyom Egolum’s journey reads like a testament of faith, courage, and vision. She has held positions of trust and honor, always leaving trails of fairness, foresight, and compassion.

Today, her legacy shines brightly especially in the lives she has touched which includes schools in Nri and Enugu states, churches, community associations, and women’s groups all bear testimony to her generosity and moral strength. She is a woman who gives without counting, leads without dominating, and inspires without demanding praise.

Her story challenges every woman and indeed every person to see life not as a competition, but as a calling. To lift others as we climb, to be firm yet kind, and to live in a way that our names become blessings on the lips of others.

Her relationship and love for her father, late High Chief Odogwu remains a resounding drum of moral and spiritual guidance.

Quoting her, “Leadership is not about position. It is about compassion, patience, and vision, “— Iyom Chief (Mrs.) Joy Odogwu Egolum

Today, we celebrate God’s Faithfulness on you, keep shining bright as the stars.

The ancient city of Nnewi came alive in grand style on Saturday, August 30, 2025, as it hosted its highly celebrated annual Afiaolu Festival. The historic event, known as the new yam festival, once again positioned Nnewi at the cultural center stage of Anambra State and beyond.

The city, widely regarded as the commercial hub of Anambra, welcomed indigenes, visitors, and dignitaries from all walks of life who converged to witness the colorful celebration.

As part of its commitment to promoting Igbo culture and tradition, Nigerian Breweries Plc, through its Life Beer brand, played a leading role as the major sponsor of the festival.

Speaking during the event, Iyom Joy Egolum, Corporate Affairs Manager (South East), emphasized that Life Beer remains passionate about showcasing Igbo heritage to the world. “Supporting Afiaolu Festival is our way of giving back to society while keeping our traditions alive,” she noted.

Echoing her words, Stella Agah, Marketing Manager, Nigerian Breweries Plc, expressed her delight at the experience, adding that Life Beer continues to draw strength from the richness of Igbo culture. She affirmed the brand’s vision to project the beauty of these traditions beyond Eastern Nigeria to the global stage.

From L-R: Olaoluwa Babalola, Portfolio Manager Mainstream, Nigerian Breweries Plc; Chinwe Ude, Zonal Business Manager – East, Nigerian Breweries Plc; Sarah Agha, Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc; Representative of HRH Igwe KON Orizu III, Crown Prince Obi Orizu; HRH Obi Afam Charles Obi (Ogidi IV), Obi Uruagu Nnewi and Ken Maduakor, Distributor of Life Beer at the 2025 Afiaolu Festival, Nkwo Triangle, Nnewi on Saturday.

The festival featured thrilling activities including traditional wrestling matches, cooking competitions, and mesmerizing displays by cultural dance troupes. The famous Ajofia Nnewi masquerade, regarded as the highest and most revered in the community, also made a dramatic appearance, electrifying the atmosphere. Winners of the various contests went home with handsome cash rewards courtesy of Life Beer.

For many attendees, this year’s Afiaolu stands out as the grandest celebration in recent memory — a testament to the enduring partnership between Nnewi, its people, and Nigerian Breweries in preserving cultural heritage.

See moments captured at the event below:

CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL PICTURES CAPTURED DURING THE EVENT

The 2025 Afiaolu Nnewi, laced with several moments of magic, courtesy of the bold participation of Life Continental Lager Beer has turned a pointer to the truism that change is the only permanent thing in life.

Nna, if you weren’t there, you missed o. It was as if they rang bell for the world to gather at Nnewi; the young and old – both genders.

Ka m gwazie nu gi. I was attracted by the deafening vibes on social media and I told myself ‘old boy, you no go carry last o. Better go see things for yourself’. And Life Beer, in the true spirit of ‘Obiagu’ for which the brand is famous, did not disappoint.

Check out the venue. It was spectacular. O di ebube! How would a community have set up a beautiful purpose mini-stadium for new yam festival? A touch of brilliance, never seen before in the history of new yam festivals in Igboland, not even the Afiaolu. But Life Continental Lager Beer made it happen.

Turning a cultural festival into a tourist attraction can never be a mean feat. But the Life Continental Lager Beer brand, the Obiagu is already working it out with the Afiaolu Festival. When Life Beer took over Nnewi with a town and market storm from Wednesday August 27, through Saturday 30 August 2025, the people couldn’t imagine what was in the offing until, ‘designer Obiagu patronage’ of yam sellers shook the markets to the foundations.

Shortly after spreading moments of magic around the town and the markets, with dance, music and ‘designer Obiagu patronage’, the tallest yam pyramid sprang up at the Afiaolu Festival venue, the Nkwo Nnewi Triangle. Having bought all the yams in the markets, the Life Beer team, designed an ‘oba ji’ with them. And boom, the world became magnetised to the spectacle. People couldn’t have enough of it, selfies reigned, while content creators had a field day. You can’t blame them, the 14-feet-pyramid was a beauty to behold.

From L-R: Olaoluwa Babalola, Portfolio Manager Mainstream, Nigerian Breweries Plc; Chinwe Ude, Zonal Business Manager – East, Nigerian Breweries Plc; Sarah Agha, Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc; Representative of HRH Igwe KON Orizu III, Crown Prince Obi Orizu; HRH Obi Afam Charles Obi (Ogidi IV), Obi Uruagu Nnewi and Ken Maduakor, Distributor of Life Beer at the 2025 Afiaolu Festival, Nkwo Triangle, Nnewi on Saturday.

Amidst high energy entertainment, a quality blend of music, dance, drama, food, comedy, et al, Life Beer dominated Nnewi and environs with the Obiagu spirit in an unforgettable manner for almost a week.

Talking about food, the event attracted celebrity caterers, who were not just there to entertain, but to mentor their local counterparts. And the moment the Life Beer team noticed, they intervened with the Obiagu Magic, and gave life changing prizes to four caterers of Nnewi extraction. I can tell you that, ebe obuna Life Beer gafee, people will rejoice.

Yes, with the surprise attendance of celebrity chefs, @ifys.kitchen and CeeCee, as well as @authentic_cyclist, among other notable youthful celebrities added flavour to the festival.

Their presence cooked when four local chefs got life transforming prizes of N2m, N1.5m, N750k and N500k as prizes, from the cooking competition put together as one of the side attractions of the 2025 Afiolu Festival with the backing of Life Beer.

Did you savour the magic of the 2025 Afiaolu Festival, powered by Life Beer? Or did you miss out? The 2026 Afiaolu Festival is already counting down. And I can tell you, it will happen in August 2026. Lock your calendar and follow @lifelager_ng to see more than this single post can tell.

CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL PICTURES CAPTURED IN THE EVENT 

Saturday, August 30th, 2025, will remain unforgettable in the hearts of Nnewi people as the community lit up with its annual Afiaolu Festival — a colorful celebration of the New Yam and one of the most talked-about cultural festivals in the Southeast.

Igwe Kenneth Orizu III

In the buildup to the festival, Nigerian Breweries PLC, through its Life Lager Beer initiative, paid a courtesy visit to the palace of His Royal Highness, Igwe Kenneth Orizu III (Igwe Nnewi). The visit was part of Life Beer’s continuous drive to promote and preserve Igbo culture.

In the video, Iyom Joy Egolum, Corporate Affairs Manager (South East), expressed gratitude to the Igwe for his warm reception and reaffirmed Life Beer’s commitment to cultural heritage.

Igwe Nnewi, in return, appreciated Nigerian Breweries for their support, highlighting the significance of Life Beer in the East, where it remains the preferred brand for many.

Watch the special moment below 👇

The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Enugu State, Ugochi Madueke, has cleared the air on the allegation that the state cultural troupe was involved in VISA fraud in a botched attempt to visit France for the 2024 Olympic Games

In a statement titled: RE: FALSE AND MALICIOUS ALLEGATIONS OF VISA FRAUD INVOLVING ENUGU STATE CULTURAL TROUPE,” the Commissioner pointed out that there was no truth in the allegation, noting that everything was done officially.

Madueke made their position known thus: “My attention has been drawn to a false and malicious article currently circulating online and on social media, alleging my involvement in a so-called visa fraud scheme involving thirty-four (34) Enugu State indigenes purportedly enlisted for a cultural performance at the 2024 Olympic Games in France.

“Let me state the facts clearly and unequivocally:

“Yes, the Enugu State Ministry of Culture and Tourism was officially invited to participate in cultural showcases scheduled to accompany the 2024 Olympic Games in France. As part of our preparations, the Ministry assembled a contingent of talented cultural performers and initiated the standard visa application process through appropriate diplomatic channels.

“However, despite our best efforts, the visa applications were denied by the French Embassy, a matter entirely beyond our control. At no point was there any fraudulent activity, financial extortion, or abuse of office in this process.

“I wish to categorically deny the fabricated allegations that: I received personal payments from any individual or group in relation to visa processing;  forged or facilitated any fraudulent documentation or

conspired with anyone to extort funds from citizens under false pretenses.

“These claims are false, defamatory, and deeply malicious, designed purely to tarnish my image and the work we are doing to reposition Enugu State as a cultural and tourism destination of excellence.”

To make the position clearer,  she posited that, “all processes handled by the Ministry were official, documented, and verifiable. No personal account of mine was used for any government transaction. The Ministry was never involved in collecting money from individuals for visa procurement, nor did I authorize any such activity.

“I have instructed my legal team to take immediate legal action against the originators and distributors of this slanderous publication. I have also petitioned relevant law enforcement and cybercrime agencies to investigate this coordinated attempt to defame my name and obstruct the development of our cultural sector,” she disclosed.

In a bid to promote Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, the Federal Government has announced plans to establish “Renewed Hope Cultural Villages” across the 36 states.

Mr Abiola Jagunlabi, Senior Special Assistant to Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, disclosed that the project is part of the Federal Government’s “Renewed Hope Cultural Project.”

He said the project is aimed at preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage, promoting tourism, and driving economic growth.

According to Jagunlabi, the cultural villages will be established in collaboration with state governments.

He said the vision is to transform historic sites into vibrant creative hubs, fostering economic growth and job creation in the arts and entertainment sectors.

He noted that the project will focus on restoring and conserving historic sites, monuments, palaces, and artifacts, as well as enhancing cultural education and  capacity building in local crafts.

“The project’s success relies on the active participation and collaboration of state governments, local communities, and stakeholders.

“By working together, Nigeria can unlock the transformative power of its arts, culture, tourism, and creative industries for sustainable development and social cohesion.

“The initiative, which aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s economy, creating thousands of jobs and generating revenue through tourism and creative enterprises” he said.

Jagunlabi explained that the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, is committed to boosting Nigeria’s economy through innovative programmes and policies.

To achieve this, she’s forging partnerships to develop the creative industry, unlocking job opportunities for the country’s youth.

This comprehensive approach he said, will not only enhance Nigeria’s creative industry but also contribute to the country’s economic diversification and development.

He said that the National Economic Council (NEC), has already approved the project, paving the way for the transformation of Nigeria’s creative industry.