The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority is set to support the maiden edition of the Anambra State Unity Festival (ANUFEST), slated to hold from September 21 to 27th in a week-long celebration of rich heritage.
ANUFEST was launched in Abuja on Friday at a joint press conference by the NTDA and the festival’s organisers.
ANUFEST is designed to celebrate Anambra’s rich heritage while promoting domestic tourism, youth empowerment, and enterprise. Activities lined up for the festival include football, wrestling, master classes, tourism excursions, cultural displays, heritage exhibitions, and business forums.
Speaking at the conference, the Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, Ola Awakan, stated that festivals like ANUFEST are vital for cultural preservation, destination branding, and local economic growth. He added that such events create jobs, support businesses, and enhance Nigeria’s image as a tourist destination.
Ifeanyi Ezeukwu, Director of ANUFEST, stated that the festival aims to employ at least 3,000 people across the state. This will occur across various sectors, ranging from transportation to hospitality to Small and medium-sized businesses. He added that media houses will also be engaged for proper publicity and documentation.
Ezeukwu explained that the festival will take place across the 21 local governments, with a uniform impact throughout the state.
Ifeanyi Mbah, Legal Adviser to ANUFEST, added that there will be a tour of various tourist attractions in the state. He explained that there are various tourist sites in the state that need to be explored and recognised.
The Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) was established to promote, develop, and market Nigeria’s tourism potential. The goal is to showcase cultural heritage, natural attractions, and Hospitality assets. It is a fringe diversification agenda of the Nigerian State. This is in light of successful examples in Dubai, Paris, and Caribbean countries.
