Renowned environmentalist, Desert Warrior, and Chief Executive Officer of the Nelson Mandela Garden, Chief Dr. Newton Jibunoh, has described the Organization for the Advancement of Anioma Culture (OFAAC) – the culture umbrella body of Anioma people as an institution whose relevance has become indispensable to the Anioma people and, increasingly, the global cultural community.
Chief Jibunoh made this remark while receiving an OFAAC delegation led by its President, Arc. Kester Ifeadi. The delegation included Mr. Paddy Ugboh (Vice President), Mr. Monn Olodu (Secretary General), Mr. Emmanuel Ogwu (Director), Prince Andrew Obiokolie (National Coordinator), Comrade Patrick Ochei (Media Consultant), and Mr. Ekene Ifeadi (Member).
A member of OFAAC’s Board of Trustees, Chief Jibunoh commended the organisation’s sustained commitment to the promotion, celebration, and preservation of Anioma’s rich cultural heritage. He noted that OFAAC has distinguished itself as a leading force in documenting the history and safeguarding the cultural identity of the Anioma people.
During the visit, Arc. Ifeadi formally presented an invitation to Chief Jibunoh for the 20th edition of the Anioma Cultural Festival, scheduled to hold on Easter Monday. He also briefed him on the significance and prospects of this landmark edition.
Arc. Ifeadi praised Chief Jibunoh’s enduring contributions to cultural preservation in Africa, particularly his role in the historic FESTAC ’77, as well as his continued efforts in curating and safeguarding valuable African artefacts at the Didi Museum.
He further described the 88-year-old icon as a living legend whose dedication to the advancement of Anioma culture remains both inspiring and invaluable.
Although Chief Jibunoh indicated he may be out of the state for an important engagement during the festival, he assured the delegation of his intention to adjust his schedule in order to participate in the celebration.
“Time will come when Nigeria will not undertake anything cultural without OFAAC,” he said. “Anioma culture has become a strong cultural identity for Delta State and beyond. OFAAC has become part of us, and we have become part of OFAAC. Its programmes are not to be taken for granted.
“I must commend Arc. Kester Ifeadi for sustaining this vision for the Anioma people. Culture remains a powerful tool for unity. I recall the impact of FESTAC ’77, which I organised alongside Prof. Wole Soyinka and others – it was monumental. For over two decades, OFAAC has continued to push this vision with remarkable consistency. Your efforts are not only commendable but are being recorded positively by history,” he added.
Chief Jibunoh also conducted the delegation on a guided tour of the Nelson Mandela Garden, showcasing his latest project – the Newton Jibunoh International Convention Centre. The facility also houses a branch of the Didi Museum, complementing its main location in Lagos.
