By LUCY OKECHUKWU

The Director, Anambra Unity Festival (ANUFEST), Mr Ifeanyi Eziukwu, says the event is designed to foster unity, promote cultural heritage, boost tourism and stimulate economic growth across the state.

Eziukwu spoke in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Awka, on Monday, adding that the week-long festival would hold from Sept. 21 to Sept. 27 in the 21 LGAs of the state.

According to him, ANUFEST is a movement aimed at celebrating the identity and heritage of Anambra indigenes, while creating opportunities for youths, businesses and local communities.

“The festival will feature a wide range of activities, including cultural displays, football competitions, theatre performances, tourism excursions and wrestling contests.

“Other activities include innovation and entrepreneurship summits, creative exhibitions, entertainment events and community engagement programmes.

“Some of the major attractions will include the Ugokwesiri and Dike Anambra Reality Series, as well as the ANUFEST Unity Cup, involving teams from all the LGAs,” Eziukwu said.

He further said that the event would also feature stage performances to celebrate literary icon, Chinua Achebe, and Nigeria’s first President, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe.

“The grand cultural gala will feature EKUMEKU, a performance by the National Troupe of Nigeria, directed by renowned playwright, Prof. Ahmed Yerima,” he said.

He expressed optimism that ANUFEST would generate significant economic activities in different sectors, such as hospitality, transportation, tourism, food services, media, fashion, event production, technology and small-scale enterprises.

Eziukwu explained that the event would provide a platform for entrepreneurs, creatives, artists, innovators and local businesses to showcase their products, services and talents to a wider audience.

He said that the festival is being organised by JT Play Hub, in partnership with the Anambra Ministry of Culture, Entertainment and Tourism and the Creative Law and Intellectual Property Finance Forum.

He also said that the event had received support from African Heroes Magazine, the National Troupe of Nigeria and the National Tourism Development Authority.

“ANUFEST is not just a festival, it is a celebration of identity, unity, creativity and the future of Anambra.

“The festival is also designed to position Anambra as a leading destination for culture, tourism, investment and creativity in Nigeria,” Eziukwu said. (NAN)

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