Obi of Onitsha, Mayor of Indianapolis to grace Umu-Onitshaamaka Gala Night on July 27

Onitsha, one of Nigeria’s commercial nerve centres, is one of the 10 Indianapolis Sister Cities International (ISCI). It is the only African city in the ISCI programme aimed at forging mutually beneficial partnerships that realize and strengthen historical bonds, encourage cultural and technical exchanges, increase youth education opportunities, develop a diverse economy, and collaborate in tackling emerging issues.

To commemorate this relationship, the Umu-Onitshaamaka of Indiana will host a grand gala on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at the Global Village, 4253 Lafayette Road, Indianapolis, Indiana beginning at 4 pm.

The Special Guest of Honour will be the Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Highness, Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe. His red cap chiefs and close associates will also be in attendance.

The Mayor of Indianapolis, Mayor Joe Hogsett, and some city officials will also attend the historic gala event.

Highlights of the event include:

• Men and Women Cultural Dance
• Children and Youth Cultural Dance
• Masquerade
• The best of Highlife and Afro-beat music
• Authentic Igbo cuisine

All donations in checks should be made to Umu-Onitshaamaka of Indiana Inc. and mailed to 10634 Cyrus Drive, Indianapolis, IN46231, while Zelle payments should be made in favour of Umuonitshaamaka@gmail.com. Further inquiries are to be directed to umuonitshaamaka2gmail.com or 317 250 9597.

The city of Indianapolis established a sister city relationship with Onitsha in 2021. Onitsha is Indiana’s ninth sister city but the first in Africa. “As Indianapolis continues to grow and expand its role in the global economy, partnering with a diverse portfolio of cities around the world will be vital to our future success,” Mayor Hogsett said.

“And it’s no coincidence that we, the Crossroads of America, have connected with Onitsha, which is considered the commercial crossroads of Nigeria. Onitsha is a leader in commerce, education, and transportation in West Africa. They have also shown a commitment to economic and workforce development, renewable energy, environmental preservation, growth of the tech sector, and promotion of its cultural assets and traditions”, he added.

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