Ndoni Kingdom in Rivers State resuscitates a 70-year age-grade parade in a festival of unity and rich culture in what the celebrators describe as the biggest event for decades
By Chinedu Oguh, Port Harcourt
From the preparations to the actual event itself, the message of the Ndoni people was clear- “We are reviving the lost heritage of over 70 years of age-grades parade in unity, culture and progress.”
And so, for four days, Ndoni Kingdom in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State stood still as drums rolled, canoes raced, wrestlers grappled and generations marched in a rich parade of cultural displays. It was the Ndoni Age-Grade Festival-the biggest celebration in the kingdom-and this year, no one wanted to be left out.
From the elders who were born in the 1950s to the youths and millennials, every indigene found their voice and place. Even those who skipped past editions showed up, because the belief in Ndoni is that one’s age-grade remains his identity.
It was more than just a party. It represents a structure for unity. The Age-Grade system is the backbone of Ndoni. Each of the 20 age grades has a chairman. Together, they form a forum that drives community development, settles issues and funds projects.
“For the people of Ndoni, the age-grade system is more than a celebration. It is a structure for unity, identity, and community development. It ensures that every son and daughter has a place, a responsibility, and a voice,” a community leader noted.
Leading the charge was Chief Chinedu Ikenga, the Omenosa of Ndoni and Chairman of Chairmen of all Age-Grades. He took “the bull by the horn” to ensure the festival was a success.
Highlights of the event showcased parade, wrestling and display of cultural milestones. The arena came alive with the grand parade of age-grades, set by set, in pomp, pageantry and colour. Each group announced themselves with chants, deft dance steps and matching attire.
The crowd roared loudest during the traditional wrestling contests, a display of strength, skill and heritage that reminded everyone what Ndoni stands for.
Speaking on the event, the Nmili Ndoni and Chairman of the Occasion, Hon. Lucky Omenka, said, “Today we celebrate our identity, root and heritage with the theme: Reviving the Lost Heritage. Our riverine customs were fading, but we are restoring them. As our ancestors said, ‘the river that forgets its source will dry up.’
“A divided community is like a broken canoe that cannot reach its destination. Ndoni is our pride. Ndoni is our strength. Ndoni is our home.”
Other speakers echoed Omenka. Representative of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Constituency 2 in the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon. Mrs. Nkemjike Ezekwe, described the event as a “transfer of culture, saying, “The way the younger ones are watching it, they are catching up and they are also modernizing it. It also enables bonding in the community. When we come together like this, we strengthen unity.”
She admonished Ndoni people in the Diaspora to play a role, adding, “Even if you are not physically present, send some support to help sustain the event. I congratulate the sons and daughters of Ndoni for reviving a culture that was almost forgotten.”
Omenka also sent a message for those who could not make it to the event: “You are missing a lot. The atmosphere has changed. Key in and identify with your age grade. Be an active member so that next time you will not be left out.”
On his part, Omenosa of Ndoni, Chief Chinedu Ikenga, thanked God and all sons, daughters and friends of Ndoni, while urging them to sustain the legacy.
“It is wonderful to see so many smiling faces. Let’s take a moment to appreciate the beauty of our culture and the diversity that makes us strong,” he said, noting that the festival was not just for entertainment, but an event that drives the economic value chain and tourism potential of Ndoni.
“This celebration wouldn’t have been possible without the commitment and support of well-meaning sons, daughters and friends of Ndoni. The sustainability of this event lies in our hands. Your financial support would be much appreciated,” he added.
A high point of the event was the award bestowed on a former Governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Otunuya Odili by the All Age-Grade Forum. Describing Odili as a legend, the award was to recognize him for his outstanding development strides, achievements and contributions to the kingdom and Rivers State at large.
As the last drumbeat faded, one thing was clear: Ndoni is building its future by honoring its people, reviving its culture and streamlining its development structure.
