By Stella Obi
The literary classic, ‘Things Fall Apart’, written by the late renowned author Chinua Achebe, came alive on stage at the weekend as students of Mater Amabilis Schools, Lagos, dramatized the novel, bringing Igbo and African culture vividly to life.
The stage performance formed part of activities during the Festival of African Culture and Arts (FESTCAM 2026) held in Lagos.
FESTCAM was organised by Mater Amabilis Schools Lagos, in partnership with Heartland Culture Awareness and Empowerment Foundation, with the aim of instilling African culture and traditions in young people.
Speaking during the event, the Chairman of the occasion, a former executive member of Association of Anambra State Development Unions, Lagos branch, and Crown Prince of Ogwuikpele in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State, Chief Mezie Okwuosa, said FESTCAM provides a unique platform for schoolchildren to experience African culture firsthand, thereby helping them appreciate the importance of the traditions and heritage of their people.
He applauded the students for their outstanding performance in staging the novel, which presents a detailed and respectful portrayal of traditional Igbo society before the arrival of Europeans.
“The novel shows the customs, religion, social structure, festivals and everyday life of the Igbo people,” he said.
Chief Okwuosa also noted that Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity remains a valuable asset that should be preserved and celebrated.
In her remarks, the proprietress of Mater Amabilis Schools, Mrs Nonye Ucheagwu, said the school remains committed not only to academic excellence but also to nurture creativity, cultural awareness, talent development and character formation among students.
Contributing, the founder of Heartland Culture Awareness and Empowerment Foundation, Mrs Chinyere Chukwudi, underscored the importance of culture and tradition, saying it provides a sense of identity, belonging and connecting individuals to their roots and shaping their values.
Also speaking, former Chairman of Ozubulu Development Union, Lagos Branch, Chief Charles Egwu, said that culture promotes diversity, tolerance and mutual understanding, thereby making communities richer and more vibrant.
In his remarks, the Director of Mater Amabilis Schools, Mr Anselm Ucheagwu, explained that FESTCAM was conceived out of growing concerns among experts in African culture and traditions that some indigenous cultures are gradually going extinct. He, therefore, urged African societies to take deliberate steps to preserve their cultural heritage.
Highlights of the event included exhibitions of African crafts and traditional foods, further showcasing the richness of African culture.
Stella is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
