The people of Mbaise, Imo State, have finalized preparations for the 2025 edition of the Iriji Mbaise Cultural Festival, slated for August 15. The annual event, a cornerstone of the Mbaise cultural identity, is expected to attract participants and visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.
Addressing newsmen at the Ezuruezu Mbaise Civic Center, Chief Steve Onu, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, revealed that the event will take place at the Town School Itu, Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area.
“This year’s festival will be chaired by Barrister Louis Alozie SAN and will feature exhibitions of other Mbaise cultural ensembles, underscoring Iriji Mbaise as a veritable national cultural event,” Onu said.
The planning committee urged government agencies to prioritize road rehabilitation across Mbaise’s three local government areas to facilitate easy movement during the festivities.
“Improved road infrastructure will not only benefit the festival but will also reflect positively on the state government in the eyes of both Nigerians and foreign visitors eager to witness the event.”he noted.
Highlighting the tourism potential of Mbaise, Onu appealed to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to rehabilitate key tourist sites such as the Lagwa Monkey Colony, Ahiara Declaration Centre, Mbari Cultural Centre, and Nguru.
He emphasized the importance of providing tourist guides to enhance visitors’ experiences during the festival.
Onu also directed attention to the state of hospitality facilities in the area, calling on hotel and eatery operators to clean and upgrade their establishments in preparation for the influx of guests.
“The hospitality industry has a crucial role to play in ensuring visitors have a positive experience during the festival,” he stressed.
He extended a special appeal to Governor Hope Uzodinma to approve the rehabilitation of roads in Mbaise. “
This gesture will not only ease access to every part of Mbaise during the festival but will also leave a lasting impression of goodwill and commitment on the part of the state government,” Onu said.
