By Vincent Ujumadu
The Ofala Onitsha Steering Committee has unveiled the official logo and theme for Ofala 2026 festival, which will mark 500 plus years of unbroken monarchy.
The festival is scheduled to hold on October 16 and 17 at Ime Obi, Ezechima Square, Onitsha, with the theme, Igba mbo, iga n’iru (Strive and Advance).
Chairman of the Ofala steering committee, Dr Mike Areh, said the 2026 logo is a royal, cultural, and premium visual statement developed to reflect the strength of an institution that has endured for over 500 years, yet remains relevant, progressive, and unifying.
“For 500 years, our forebears strove to build, protect, and sustain the Onitsha Kingdom. Today, we are called to advance that legacy through culture, enterprise, youth development, and unity. In this Ofala, we honour the past by building the future”, Areh said.
According to the Ofala steering committee chairman, the logo was conceptualized to show that Ofala is not only a celebration of tradition, but also a living system of identity, leadership, order, resilience, and advancement.
Areh added: “Ofala holds the people together while reminding them that heritage is not static; it is a foundation for movement.
“The swords represent royal authority, protection, and continuity. The beads speak to identity, honour, and cultural belonging.
“The central plate carries the message with the dignity of a royal proclamation. The line-up of Agbogidi, red-chiefs, and attendants captures the sacred moment of readiness before the monarch appears before his people.
“The white sculptural relief gives a refined heritage feel, while the purple accents reinforce royalty and the Ofala brand identity.
“Every element was intentionally placed to connect the throne, the people, the culture, and
the future. Ofala 2026 is heritage in motion;
rooted in royalty, built on resilience and moving toward progress.
“As the Onitsha Kingdom marks 500+ years of unbroken monarchy, the theme is a call for Ndi Onitsha and Ndi Igbo to strive and advance.”
The highlights of the two – day event include the Iru Ofala, Azu Ofala, Oreze International Art
Exhibition, Ofala Youth Carnival ,and initiatives aligned with the theme.
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