Reported By Mary Udezue | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Obosi, Anambra State — Former Minister of Aviation and ex-Director General of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Chief Osita Chidoka, has extended a festive invitation to Igbos across Nigeria and the diaspora to return to the East for the upcoming Christmas celebrations. Posting on his official Facebook account, Chief Chidoka assured compatriots that adequate security measures have been put in place, emphasizing that visitors have no cause for concern while enjoying the holiday season in the region.
Chief Chidoka, who remains a prominent figure in both political and social circles, revealed plans for a vibrant and culturally rich Christmas gathering in his hometown of Obosi. According to his social media message, the event will feature traditional Igbo delicacies sourced from various parts of Nigeria, ensuring an authentic experience for attendees. “It will rock….you can stop by in Obosi and say hello,” he stated, highlighting the community-oriented nature of the festivities.
Among the provisions highlighted by Chief Chidoka are locally sourced palmwine from Sir Clem Nwogbo’s farm in Awka, dry fish from Oguta, okro from Anam, garri from Umunede, okazi leaves from Akwa Ibom, and ugu from Akamposi Obosi’s farm. Palm oil from Ohafia will also be available, reflecting a deliberate effort to showcase fresh, organic, and regionally diverse produce during the celebrations. His announcement concluded with the Igbo phrase “Bia…bia Izu kanma na nneji,” inviting friends and family to join in a communal and joyous occasion.
Local observers say Chief Chidoka’s call reflects a broader trend of encouraging cultural reconnection among Igbos during festive periods, particularly as many members of the diaspora return to their ancestral homes to celebrate. This approach not only strengthens communal ties but also fosters a sense of security and unity within host communities.
Security experts working in the region have confirmed that measures are being coordinated with local law enforcement and community groups to ensure a safe environment for both residents and visitors. Officials noted that additional patrols, emergency response teams, and community liaison officers will be deployed throughout the Christmas period to maintain order and respond to any incidents promptly.
Social commentators have praised Chief Chidoka’s initiative as a blend of cultural preservation, social cohesion, and strategic hospitality. By sourcing food items from different parts of the Igbo-speaking region, the former minister highlights the interconnectedness of communities while promoting traditional practices and culinary heritage. Attendees, he noted, can expect not just a festive meal but a comprehensive experience of Igbo culture, music, and communal celebration.
Residents of Obosi have welcomed the announcement, expressing optimism that the festive season will bring economic opportunities and a revival of communal life in the town. Local artisans, traders, and hospitality operators are preparing for an influx of visitors, which they anticipate will stimulate local businesses and showcase the East’s capacity to host large-scale festive events safely.
The invitation also comes at a time when national conversations around security, mobility, and regional tourism are intensifying. By publicly assuring that safety has been prioritized, Chief Chidoka seeks to dispel fears that have sometimes deterred travel within southeastern Nigeria, especially for diaspora members who wish to reconnect with family and heritage.
Political analysts note that such initiatives by prominent figures can have a wider social impact, strengthening cultural identity while also promoting confidence in regional governance and community organization. The integration of traditional festivities with structured security measures underscores a dual focus on enjoyment and responsible civic planning.
For many Igbos living outside the region, Chief Chidoka’s call represents an opportunity to celebrate heritage, reconnect with family networks, and participate in rituals that reinforce cultural continuity. By combining locally sourced delicacies with a festive ambiance, the event promises a tangible celebration of Igbo identity, resilience, and communal solidarity.
As the Christmas season approaches, preparations in Obosi are underway, and expectations remain high for a memorable and secure celebration. Chief Chidoka’s announcement serves as both an invitation and a reassurance, signaling that the East is ready to host visitors with warmth, tradition, and meticulous attention to safety. For those planning to return, it is set to be a festive season marked by joy, cultural pride, and a reaffirmation of community bonds.
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