Since Nigerian Breweries announced that Aguleri Forest in Anambra State would be the battleground for this year’s edition of the Gulder Ultimate Search aptly tagged ‘The Mission’, the ancient Igbo town has been in the news for good.
Like the Ife and Modakeke, the Aguleri and Umuleri crisis sometime ago, was a saga that left untold tales about the two neighbouring villagers.
Today, the vibrant town is trending everywhere-traditional and social media, among other platforms for good because of its choice as the host of GUS-The Mission.
But most delighted for the good news is Christopher Idigo IV, the Ogalagidi and Igwe of Aguleri. The paramount ruler, a trained engineer and fourth in the Idigo royal dynasty, says the choice is putting the town on global spotlight, and is opening it up to further developments.
“I am delighted that the show is about empowering the youths, because the youths are the catalysts for advancing any society, so we welcome it. I also thank Nigerian Breweries for this initiative through which they are ploughing back to society”, the paramount ruler who is a fan of the reality TV show says.
The choice of the town, according to the Igwe, is a double blessing and also a fulfilment of God’s promise to make the town rise again. “God has promised us this year that Aguleri will rise to its rightful place in Anambra State. It may also interest you to know that the new Governor of Anambra State, Willy Obiano, who was sworn in this year, is our son”, he says with pride.
Bearing in mind the past, and concerned with the safety of the contestants, crew members and other facilitators of the show, the Ogalagidi assures that every soul in the town is in support of the development while the town is putting all necessary security measures in place to ensure safety and security throughout the period of the show.
“We can assure you of a peaceful environment. Our people do not resent visitors. As a matter of fact, we are accommodating to a fault. The organisers of the show should expect our support and cooperation in any way they might require it. My palace will remain accessible to them”, he assures.
But one thing the Igwe desires most is for the youths of the town to participate in the show as the host community. Of course, the organisers advise him to urge the youths to take advantage of the Awka screening centre of the reality show to increase their chances of participation and also winning if they possess the qualities required of the Ultimate Hero.
While the Igwe expects the show to attract more people to Aguleri because of its publicity on local and satellite TV platforms, he also hopes to use the show’s platform to woo many tourists to his Ofala Festival this year.
OBINNA EMELIKE
