The preservation of heritage and the promotion of cultural dialogue took centre stage on the cultural day of the 2026 Unity Week at Godfrey Okoye University. The SSA on Culture, Ozor Dr. Ferdinand Aniekwe stated that the highly anticipated Cultural Day event was carefully designed to ensure that the rich values of Nigerian culture are kept alive among the younger generation.
Dr. Aniekwe noted that having the iconic Chief Zebrudaya Okoroigwe as Chairman of the occasion and the veteran Nollywood actress, Lolo Patience Ozokwor (popularly known as Mama G), as Mother of the Day, gave students a rare opportunity to learn from legends who have shaped Nigeria’s cultural and entertainment landscape. He also lauded the Vice Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke, for his unwavering commitment to sustaining cultural growth within the institution.
The grand celebration began with a Holy Mass, where the Vice Chancellor delivered a moving homily encouraging love among students, which he noted brings ultimate joy to the soul. Showing solid alumni support, the Executive Chairman of Aninri Local Government and an alumnus of the university, Prince Ugochukwu Ujokwu, urged the students to remain good ambassadors of the institution and backed his words with a generous donation of 500,000 naira to support the day’s activities.
The Royal Father of the Day, His Royal Highness Igwe Emmanuel Ugwu, praised the Vice Chancellor for keeping a tradition alive that prepares students to embrace their social and cultural responsibilities. During the traditional coronation rites, the monarch urged the newly crowned student king, Igwe Nwangwa Kingsley (Igwe Eze Udo XIII), who succeeded the outgoing king, Igwe Solomon Chinwetalu (Igwe Eze Udo XII), to always walk the path of truth, integrity, and justice.
Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke then officially bestowed the crown upon the new Igwe on behalf of the university management, while Chief Zebudia Okworogwe presented him with the official Staff of Authority. Mama G also offered words of wisdom to the newly crowned Lolo, advising her to reign with harmony, wisdom, and a spirit of unity for the progress of the campus community.
The climax of the day featured an array of vibrant activities, including a majestic Royal dance by the new Igwe, Igwe Nwangwa Kingsley, and his cabinet, a colorful cultural parade representing the Efik, Yoruba, Hausa, and Igbo communities, a beautiful simulation of an inter-tribal marriage celebrating diverse heritage, the official launch of a cultural magazine, a fashion parade, and a diverse traditional food exhibition inspected by the university management.
The event attracted top dignitaries, including the Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Obi Ozor, university principal officers, friends of the institution, and the alumni representative, Mr. Emmanuel Okoh (Okwulora), wrapping up the 2026 Unity Week on an unforgettable, high note.
