Globacom Sponsors 2025 Ofala Festival to Boost Nigeria’s Cultural Tourism

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Telecommunications giant Globacom has reaffirmed its dedication to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage by renewing its sponsorship of the 2025 Ofala Festival, a vibrant celebration led by Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha. 

The announcement was made during a press briefing at Obi’s Palace in Onitsha, highlighting the festival’s significant contribution to Nigeria’s burgeoning tourism sector, which is projected to add N11.2 trillion to the nation’s GDP in 2025.

The Ofala Festival, set for October 17-18, 2025, will feature key events such as the Iru Ofala and Azu Ofala, complemented by the Oreze Art Exhibition, a youth carnival, a medical outreach programme, and a royal banquet. These activities aim to showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural tapestry while fostering community engagement and economic growth.

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Globacom, the festival’s principal sponsor since 2011, has emphasised that its support is rooted in the belief that cultural celebrations like Ofala are vital to Nigeria’s economy, identity, and global presence.

“Nigeria’s tourism sector is expected to contribute N11.2 trillion to GDP in 2025, up from N10.9 trillion in 2024, with domestic tourism expenditure reaching N6.1 trillion and international visitor spending at N803.2 billion. These figures highlight the economic power of culture and tourism. Our investment in Ofala is about building communities, creating jobs, and fostering pride,” Globacom stated.

To enhance the festival experience, Globacom has announced the introduction of a special subscriber package, including the new Talkmasta plan and Welcome Bonus, which offers extra talk time, data, and rewards for subscribers. Additionally, the company is rolling out expanded 4G-LTE infrastructure across the Southeast to ensure seamless connectivity for attendees, enabling real-time engagement and global visibility for the festival.

Nnaemeka Maduegbuna, chairman of the Strategic Marketing and Communications Committee, detailed the festival’s schedule, which kicks off with a lecture series on October 7. The lineup features a range of cultural and community initiatives designed to engage diverse audiences. Maduegbuna also assured attendees of robust security measures to ensure a safe and vibrant experience.

One compelling reason for brands to join Globacom in sponsoring the Ofala Festival is its role as a custodian of Nigeria’s rich Igbo heritage, which resonates deeply in a nation grappling with modernisation and globalisation. By supporting events like the Iru Ofala and Azu Ofala ceremonies, as well as complementary activities such as art exhibitions, youth carnivals, medical outreach programs, and royal banquets, sponsors contribute to the preservation of cultural identity. This aligns seamlessly with corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, enabling brands to position themselves as champions of community resilience and unity, particularly in the post-pandemic era, where cultural festivals promote healing and social cohesion. 

Moreover, the economic rationale is undeniable, given the festival’s proven potential to bolster Nigeria’s tourism sector, which is forecasted to contribute N11.2 trillion to the GDP in 2025 alone. As domestic tourism spending surges to N6.1 trillion and international visitor expenditures reach N803.2 billion, events like Ofala serve as catalysts for job creation, local business stimulation, and infrastructure development. 

Brands sponsoring alongside Globacom can leverage this momentum by integrating their products or services into the festivities, much like Globacom’s rollout of special subscriber packages, expanded 4G-LTE networks, and promotional rewards that ensure seamless connectivity and real-time global engagement. 

This not only amplifies the festival’s reach but also positions sponsors at the heart of economic ecosystems, where cultural celebrations intersect with commerce to drive pride, employment, and sustainable growth. For multinational corporations eyeing expansion in Africa, the festival’s ambition for global recognition offers a gateway to international audiences, transforming a local event into a worldwide showcase of Nigerian excellence.

 

Embark on a thrilling journey through Nigeria’s rich tourism, timeless traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. Our stories at Rex Clarke Adventures ignite wanderlust and celebrate Africa’s cultural heartbeat. Dive into our blog for unforgettable tales of discovery!

Share this journey, spark conversations, and join us in preserving Nigeria’s cultural legacy while showcasing its tourism treasures for generations to come.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) And Answers

What is the Ofala Festival?

The Ofala Festival is an annual cultural celebration in Onitsha, Nigeria, led by Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha. It features events such as the Iru Ofala, Azu Ofala, art exhibitions, youth carnivals, medical outreaches, and royal banquets, all celebrating Igbo heritage.

When is the 2025 Ofala Festival scheduled to take place?

The 2025 Ofala Festival is scheduled for October 17–18, 2025, with additional events starting October 7, including a lecture series.

How is Globacom supporting the 2025 Ofala Festival?

Globacom is the principal sponsor, providing financial support, introducing a special subscriber package (Talkmasta plan and Welcome Bonus), and expanding 4G-LTE infrastructure in the Southeast for seamless connectivity.

How does the Ofala Festival contribute to Nigeria’s economy?

The festival supports Nigeria’s tourism sector, projected to contribute N11.2 trillion to the country’s GDP in 2025, by attracting both domestic and international visitors, creating jobs, and promoting the country’s cultural heritage.

What measures are in place for attendee safety at the festival?

The festival organisers, as confirmed by Nnaemeka Maduegbuna, have implemented robust security measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable event for all attendees.