By Fummilayo Adebayo
The National Association of Delta State Students (NADESSTU), UNIBEN/UBTH Chapter, hosted a cultural celebration tagged “Cultural Harmony” and “Roots & Colours 1.0” on Saturday, 23rd August 2025, at the UBTH Staff School field. The event was a dynamic showcase of Delta’s rich cultural heritage.
The programme commenced with an opening prayer by an Itsekiri student of the University of Benin at 12:40 p.m., followed by the formal introduction of the various ethnic groups and tribes in Delta State.
The tribes of Delta represented included the Ika, Ijaw, Aniocha/Osimili, Itsekiri, Urhobo, Isoko, and Ndokwa. The Vice President of NADESSTU, Comr. Adaobi, delivered an opening speech, emphasising that “culture is our identity”. She encouraged students to preserve their heritage with pride while highlighting the importance of unity among all Delta tribes.
The Itsekiri tribe formally opened the celebration with a captivating cultural parade that left the audience in awe, showcasing the richness of Delta culture.
A significant cultural highlight followed with the presentation of kolanuts by all the represented tribes. The kolanuts were symbolically wagered with cash prizes, reflecting respect for cultural heritage. Each group head—referred to as the queen or obi—uniquely demonstrated how kolanuts are traditionally broken in their culture, with sufficient blessings rendered in their native languages, emphasising the belief that “kolanut does not understand English”. Each tribe offered prayers in their own tongue over the kolanuts, underscoring the spiritual depth of the ritual.
The Chairman of Techbok, Mr Joseph, was also present. He gave a short lecture on the importance of technology in representing, preserving, and promoting culture.
The Public Relations Officer of NADESSTU, Comr. Uwabor Peter, explained the significance of Roots & Colours, describing it as a creative platform to promote culture, showcase artistic talent, and foster unity through cultural expression. He also appreciated the sponsors and contributors who made the event possible.
The unique cultural performances continued with a dance by the Ndokwa people.
During the Roots & Culture contest, two contestants were called up. One of them, Uzor Abigail from the Faculty of Nursing, amazed the audience with her artistic drawings, reflecting the blend of Delta tradition and its roots. Her drawings—explained to the audience—included depictions of Delta foods and the oldest man of Delta.
The competition proceeded with a traditional Delta song presented by an Urhobo student, which left the crowd speechless. After the judges’ deliberation, Uzor Abigail was declared the winner of the contest with a total of 8 points. Awards were presented to all contestants.
In attendance were several Students’ Union bodies, including the SUG UNIBEN executives such as the Director of Welfare, Director of Socials, Public Relations Officer, the 38th SUG Speaker, and the Deputy Clerk, among others.
Also present were faculty presidents, including those of the Faculties of Engineering, Law, and Physical Sciences, alongside other comrades.
The event continued with traditional dances from each of the Delta tribes. It featured traditional displays, artistic performances, giveaways, and refreshments, leaving attendees with a profound connection to the roots of Delta.
The evening concluded with the presentation of awards to winners of various contests, cultural ambassadors, and special recognition and appreciation awards to outstanding comrades and invited guests.