By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
Citizen Matthew Koffi Okono, President/Founder of the Open Forum Care for Humanity Foundation, has proposed a rebranding of the Ibom Christmas Village to “Ibom Festival of Arts and Culture” (Ibom FESTAC) in order to better align with the cultural and tourism potential of the event.
Okono’s recommendation comes as he expressed concerns over the increasing shift from the traditional Christian-themed celebration to cultural, traditional, and secular activities, which he argues are incompatible with Christian values.
Addressing the media in Uyo, Okono referenced Governor Umo Eno’s decision to prohibit certain mystical and eerie displays during the 2023 Christmas Unplugged edition as an example of the need for the event to reflect the region’s predominantly Christian values. He urged Christians in the state to uphold the sanctity of Christmas celebrations in Akwa Ibom, especially under the leadership of a clergyman governor.
The productivity advocate also called for the continuation of the long-standing Ibom Christmas Carol, emphasizing the need to distinguish it from the broader cultural festival.
Okono further suggested expanding participation in the newly branded Ibom FESTAC by inviting non-indigenes, as well as people from other states and abroad, to experience Akwa Ibom’s rich culture and cuisine during the December festivities. However, he stressed that this should not incur unnecessary costs, unlike the previous Ibom Christmas Carols, which featured foreign artists at significant expense to the state.
