Cultural Partnership Via Opobo Regatta

By EVEREST EZIHE, Owerri

Imo state Governor Chief Ikedi Ohakim has re-echoed its administration's resolve to Promote culture and tourism in the state. The governor stated this when he received in audience His Majesty, King Dandeson Douglas Jaja, Jp, the Amanyanabo of Opobo IV.
Chief Ohakim commended him for the cultural revival of Opobo Kingdom since his assumption of office and called for harmonious relationship between the South-South and South  East. Ohakim assured the King that his government would support the Opobo International Boat racing regatta. His Excellency further called for strong inter-group relationship especially in marriage and culture exchange.
Earlier in his speech, King Jaja said they came to invite the state to the forthcoming international boat racing regatta in Opobo by January 2009. He said that the boat racing regatta will show case the cultural potentials of Opobo to the outside world and called for the representation of Imo cultural troupe in the festival. According to the King, Countries like America, China, Australia and Norway have shown interest in what Opobo intends to achieve through the forthcoming cultural boat regatta. He finally commended the governor on the Clean and Green Initiative of the state and the rural development which has moved Imo to a greater height.  
Present were members of the state Executive Council, Chairman South-East Council of traditional rulers and the entourage of the King of Opobo.