By Ingram Osigwe.
Akokwa Digital Ladies, ADL, a non profit organisation made up of women of Akokwa descent either by birth or marriage, is gearing up for its maiden ADL Akokwa carnival.
A press release jointly signed by the group’s heads of Publicity and marketing teams, Dr Chinwe Muomalu and Mrs Ngozi Ohanugo respectively, explained that the two- day tourism fiesta slated for December 28-29,2024 at St. Peter Anglican Church compound, Akokwa, Ideato North local government area of Imo state will feature a variety of side attractions like Cultural performances, local cuisines displays, handicrafts, workshops and health talks among others and will be covered live by national and international media organisations.
At the event, Awards will also be bestowed on notable sons and daughters of Akokwa who have distinguished themselves in their careers and other fields of endeavour.
According to the press statement, ADL, through the Carnival, aims at showcasing to the world, Akokwa’s rich cultural heritage
“There are high expectations from Akokwa women in this Carnival and we assure all that ADL will not disappoint. ADL’s decision to stage a carnival is not a direct challenge to Akokwa men but the women’s own contribution to putting Akokwa on the global stage, showcasing its rich cultural heritage, its fauna and sauna, fame and economic importance as a border town”, ADL said in the statement.
ADL noted that Akokwa, a border town to Anambra state which hosts many transport companies, is strategically located and a major economic hub in Imo state outside Orlu, Owerri and Okigwe.
“It is on the strength of the above, that is, the social, geographical and economic significance of Akokwa, that we invite business owners and corporate organisations to tap into the huge market and audience that the carnival will present by sponsoring the event”, ADL further said.
The carnival will be graced by the creme la de creme in the society, including captains of industry, business moguls, top government officials, traditional rulers, and religious leaders in and outside Akokwa as special guests.
One of Imo state’s best event comperes, MC Imo, and another talented compere, Cruise With Joe will be on hand to direct proceedings. The organisers are also currently discussing with major Nigerian artists for possible performances at the Carnival.
Founded early this year by Lady Maria Ihionu, ADL aims at eradicating poverty and helping the vulnerable, especially in Akokwa, make meaning out of life.
Speaking during the inauguration of the organisation in Asaba, the Delta state capital, early in the year, Lady Ihionu stressed that ADL would strive to foster love, unity and sisterhood among Akokwa women at home and diaspora. She expressed the hope that the group will help project to the rest of Nigeria and to the world, the elegant tributes of Akokwa women which she said include intelligence, wisdom, humility and conviviality.
“Akokwa Ditigal Ladies is for all women, either by birth or marriage, and of sound mind, living in Akokwa or in diaspora…our aim is to bring Akokwa women under one umbrella to achieve common goal of fostering love, sisterhood, serving humanity and lending our shoulders to the vulnerable, the less privileged in the society, especially in Akokwa”, Lady Ihionu had said.
– Osigwe is the media consultant to Akokwa Digital ladies.
