Glo: Why we supported Ofala, other festivals

Telecommunications company Globacom has explained the rationale behind its strong support for the nation’s top festivals, including Ofala Festival in the Onitsha area of Anambra State.

Speaking at the 2024 Ofala Festival held at Ime Obi in Onitsha on Saturday, October 19, 2024, the Divisional Head for South at Globacom, Tochukwu Okechukwu, said cultural sectors including crafts, festivals, tourism, and the arts and crafts would boost the local economy by promoting local goods and creating jobs.

Okechukwu also expressed the company’s appreciation of the critical role that culture plays in national development as well as its capacity to strengthen national identity and unite people around common traditions, values, and history.

He said: “Culture influences education systems and can inspire creativity and innovation. Cultural knowledge can enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

“Moreover, a vibrant culture enhances a nation’s soft power, improving its international standing and influence through diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange.”

The Globacom official, according to a statement issued on Monday, stated that communication was essential to society in an increasingly interconnected world.

“It is through dialogue and connection that we foster understanding and collaboration. Our mission is to empower every voice within our community to be heard through affordable telecom services and digital solutions,” he said.

Glo-sponsored Ofala Festival in Onitsha begins Friday

Okechukwu noted that technology was developing at a never-before-seen rate and restated Globacom’s commitment to using technology for the good of society.

Okechukwu said: “We envision a future where innovation does not stand apart from tradition, but instead enhances it. We believe that connectivity can strengthen the bonds within our community, bridging generations and fostering collaboration among all our citizens.

“Together, we can create an environment where our cultural heritage and technological advancements coexist harmoniously, enriching the lives of all. These are the reasons why we will continue to support our cultural festivals such as Ofala and Ojude Oba.”

Also speaking at the event, the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, thanked Globacom for its support for the festival over the years, adding that this had raised the festival’s visibility.

The monarch disclosed that the Ministry of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy had been asked to assist in getting Ofala added to the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The Star