Diaspora and Homeland Converge as CISA-Fest Arrives in Anambra with Royal Dignitaries

Diaspora and Homeland Converge as CISA-Fest Arrives in Anambra with Royal Dignitaries

The Council of Igbo States in Americas (CISA) and the Igbo World Assembly (IWA) will host their annual cultural convention, CISA-Fest, on December 12, 2025, at the Ikendigbo Event Center in Abagana, opposite the Njikoka Local Government Headquarters in Anambra State. This year’s event carries the theme “Oganiru Ifediiche (Positive Impact)” and is geared toward strengthening connections between the global Igbo diaspora and their ancestral homeland through cultural renewal and collaborative initiatives.

Organizers say the convention will explore new pathways for diaspora descendants to reclaim their cultural identity. CISA’s ongoing preservation programs—including diaspora leadership forums, heritage education schemes, and the construction of Igbo Village replicas—will feature prominently as models for sustaining cultural knowledge among younger generations abroad.

Activities will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will include cultural performances, masquerade displays, panel discussions, and interactive heritage dialogues involving researchers, traditional rulers, and diaspora representatives. HRM Eze Chukwuemeka Eri, Eze Eri, Ezeora 34th & Aka Ji Ovọ Igbo, will serve as Royal Father of the Day. His Eminence Dr. Eberechukwu Oji, the Eze Aro of Arochukwu, will appear as Guest Royal Father.

Leadership of the event is anchored by Dr. N. A. Anakwenze, Regent/Onowu of Abagana, Chairman of the CISA Governing Council and IWA President, as Chief Host. Chief Dr. (Mrs.) Uzoamaka Josephine Aguoji (Nee Ekunnọ), President of CISA, is Host, while Onye Nze Amadiebube Mbama, Vice Board Chairman of CISA and Coordinator of GIL, is Co-Host.

Notable attendees include Dr. Juan Ávila Abrahams, expert in constitutional law and human rights; Chief Laverne Holden, Ugosimba I of Ibagwa Nike (UK) and CEO of Able Farms Ltd; Chief, Prince Dr. Sidney Eluemuno Davis, representing CISA’s engagement with African Americans of Igbo descent across the Western Hemisphere through DSG Diaspora and Igbo Landing initiatives; and Lolo Nneka Chimezie, President of the IWA Women Council.

CISA President Chief Dr. (Mrs.) Aguoji said the festival positions itself as a significant platform for rebuilding cultural confidence and advancing global Igbo unity while reinforcing efforts to preserve language, customs, and heritage.