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Afemai International Cultural Festival to Hold in Abuja

          Obeakemhe 

Hendrix Oliomogbe 

A group, Afemai Cultural Festival International (ACFI) has unveiled plans for a profound cultural renaissance in Abuja.

Tagged, "Afemai Cultural Renaissance Day", the event which is scheduled to hold on May 29, 2027 in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja is being organized by ACFI in collaboration with Afemai Sons and Daughters Association, Abuja.

A statement Benin City, Edo State by Mr. Sam Obeakemhe, the chief executive officer of ACFI explained that the collaboration, among others aims to awaken Afemai ancestral wisdom, elevate indigenous languages and integrate traditional Afemai – Akoko Edo, Etsako and Owan communities values with contemporary global innovations.  

He said that the event will also encourage dialogue by promoting an open exchange between modern global influences and deep-rooted cultural practices without regressing into archaic customs. 

Besides, Mr. Obeakeme said that it will foster sustainable peace and socioeconomic growth by weaving native philosophies into mainstream education and poetry framework.  

He added: "A true cultural renaissance is not a step backward into primitivism but a vital leap forward into self-awareness and innovation. Corporate brand owners, the  media, ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), Afemai communities, both at home and in the diaspora, artistes, and scholars are invited to participate in making the Afemai Cultural Renaissance day in Abuja a memorable event and redefine our shared future for the benefits of our youths – the next generation."

Mr. Obeakemhe, an accomplished culture advocate as well as a pioneer producer in the Nigerian film industry, also known as Nollywood is also geared at rediscovering heritage by showcasing Afemai traditional ceremonies, historical memories and local arts to build a strong collective identity for the people of Akoko Edo, Etsako and Owan, which make up the Afemai nation.  

Apart from successfully organizing the Afemai cultural festival in Edo North Senatorial District since 2014, he has also been actively involved in culture, advocacy, and the business of film making. 

A founding member of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and former national provost of the Association of Movie Producers Nigeria (AMP), Mr. Obeakemhe is a member of the Edo Filmmakers Association (EFMA).

A movie producer, the Fugar, Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State born versatile actor has featured in prominent movies and television productions, including Domitilla, Ripples, Ikeke (bicycle) – the first Afemai language film subtitled in English, Blood Money I and II, Stubborn Grasshopper (where he played the role of late Gen. Sani Abacha, amongst others.

The former Special Assistant to Ex-Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State is currently a facilitator at the University of Benin Centre for Entrepreneurship Development  (UNIBEN CED), teaching students event planning and management skills.

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