Get Guardian on Google…….Group seeks to revive Ulege dance, preserve Ndokwa cultural heritage
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Assistant Editor-in-Chief, Mr Emmanuel Mogbede, has been appointed Director of Media of the Ashaka Carnival Group, a socio-cultural organisation committed to promoting indigenous culture and traditions.
Mogbede’s appointment was announced in Abuja on Saturday by the group’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Izuogu Chukwuma, following the approval of the Board of Trustees (BoT) and the adoption of its standing committees and directorates.
Under the new leadership structure, the founder of the group, Mr Tony Ndanenu, retained his position as Director-General, while Mr Onyeka Iwegbue was appointed Deputy Director-General. Mr Efe Ogbogbo will serve as Secretary.
Chukwuma said the appointments were part of efforts to strengthen the group’s organisational structure and enhance preparations for the 2026 Ashaka Carnival.
He disclosed that Mr Juan Governor, a former Chairman of Ndokwa East Local Government Area, Delta, would serve on the Ad-hoc Finance Committee alongside other members.
Mr Martins Ushieagu retained his position as Director of Finance, with Mr Ovie Wanogho as Deputy Director and Ogbogbo as Secretary.
Other appointments include Mr Udu Diegbe as Director of Legal Affairs, with Iwegbue as Deputy Director and Mr Valentine Okpufe as a member.
Mr Victor Ijeaba was appointed Director of Entertainment, with Mr Goddy Osakwe as Deputy Director, Mr Fanny Ndanenu as Secretary, and Mr Elohor Ojaide as a member.
Chief Kingsley Omolu will head the Venue Directorate, with Mr Chuks Azaka as Secretary and Mr Obi Makodi, Mr Ossai Chuka, Mr Emeke Metu and Ms Tina Eriokpe as members.
The Ulege Committee will be chaired by Mr Hippo Coleman, with Mr Okechukwu Ozegbe as Secretary, while Mr Ojumili Uche will head the Odogwu Committee.
Similarly, Prof. Ugbome Nwachukwu was appointed Director of Strategy and Innovation, with Mr Ifeanyi Idili as Secretary and Mr Emeke Nwachukwu, Dr Onyene Azaka and Prof. Andrew Ubogu as members, among others.
Speaking on the appointments, Ndanenu welcomed the newly appointed directors and committee members, describing their positions as responsibilities that required dedication, active participation and meaningful contributions.
He urged them to work collectively towards delivering a successful and memorable 2026 Ashaka Carnival.
“Let us work together with unity, dedication and a strong sense of purpose to make this year’s carnival a remarkable success. Together, we shall deliver,” he said.
Ndanenu said the carnival was conceived primarily to preserve indigenous languages, traditions and cultural heritage, which he noted were gradually disappearing under the influence of modernisation.
He expressed concern over the declining use of indigenous languages and the gradual extinction of traditional cultural practices, stressing the need for communities to protect their heritage for future generations.
He said he was collaborating with like-minded individuals in Ashaka, Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State, to revive the Ulege dance through a cultural carnival.
According to him, the event, scheduled for December 25 to January 2, is designed to promote unity, peace, community development and a positive mindset, while attracting investment and development opportunities to the area.
He said various committees had been working to ensure a successful outing, adding that adequate security arrangements were being made to protect lives and property throughout the festivities.
“We grew up dancing Ulege in different groups from various quarters with distinct names in Ashaka community.
“This year, we’re expanding the dance by bringing the groups together to perform under a unified name, involving the entire community.
“This is our second large-scale event, and we expect our sons and daughters from the Diaspora and across the country to join us.
“This initiative goes beyond the Ulege dance or a carnival; it’s about uniting our people through dance and preserving our cultural heritage, which is at risk of disappearing,” he explained.
The Director-General expressed appreciation to individuals and community members who had contributed financially towards the carnival.
He said the programme would feature cultural performances, a live band, a novelty football match and other recreational activities designed to bring together indigenes of Ashaka and visitors from within and outside Nigeria.
