Ahead of its 2024 New Yam/Cultural festival, Achi Ancient Kingdom, in Oji River Local Government Area of Enugu State has unveiled activities lined up for this year’s event.
The event tagged: ‘NEW YAM/MGBABU EDERE ACHI CULTURAL FESTIVAL OCT 2024’, is scheduled to hold this month, 25th October.
This was disclosed in a statement made available to journalists by Ichie Nnabuike Okwu (Ohamadike), Chairman organizing committee.
He said the SHIALA IN COUNCIL had made available lots of prizes to be won.
The statement read, “The event is organized and sponsored by HRH Igwe Chima Achiekwelu, (Eze Ishiala Achi 1) Chairman Oji River Traditional Rulers Council, who is dedicated to promoting and preserving the traditions of the community.
“EZE ISHIALA as usual on his philanthropic and commitment to the Revival/Elevation of Achi Culture and empowerment of Achi youths has once again rolled out special prizes to be won.
“REGISTRATION FOR THE WRESTLING COMPETITION, Bank – GTB, Acc/no – 0042003114, Acc name: Hall of Fame Nig LTD.
“To participate in this year’s WRESTLING COMPETITION to enable you win one of the Star prizes, you are to register with the sum of N30,000.”
He announced that interested individuals can also “sponsor someone to participate from the 12 autonomous communities of Achi Clan.”
Prizes to be won, according to him, include: 1st Prize – EXECUTIVE SIENNA; 2nd Prize – SHUTTLE BUS; 3rd Prize – KEKE; 4th Prize – N200,000 (Consolation); 5th Prize – N100,000 (Consolation).
Okwu added that, “Ishiala kingdom Achi NNECHEEJI-Ji/MGBABU EDERE 2024 is an annual event that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Ishiala Achi kingdom.
“This year, the festival will feature a wrestling competition as always with exciting prizes for the winners.
“The wrestling competition at the Ishiala Achi Edere Festival 2024 promises to be a thrilling and competitive event. Wrestlers from the Ishiala community and neighbouring areas will come together to showcase their skills and strength in the traditional sport of wrestling. The competition will be fierce, with participants vying for the top three positions and the coveted prizes that come with them.
“The first-place winner of the wrestling competition will receive a brand new Sienna car, a valuable prize that reflects the prestige and honour associated with winning the tournament.
“The second-place winner will be awarded a minibus, while the third-place winner will receive a Keke, a popular mode of transportation in the community. These prizes serve as incentives for the wrestlers to give their best performance and compete at their highest level.
“HRM Igwe Chima Achiekwelu’s sponsorship of the wrestling competition over the years demonstrates his commitment to supporting and promoting the cultural traditions of the Ishiala community.
“By organizing events like the Ishiala Achi Edere Festival, Eze Ishiala helps to preserve the customs and practices that have been passed down through generations.
The festival provides a platform for communities to come together, celebrate their heritage, and participate in activities that are meaningful and significant to their identity.”
