PUNCH cultural event blends traditional dress, dance and masquerade display

PUNCH held the fifth edition of its annual “Rep Your Tribe” event, bringing staff together for a celebration of traditional clothing, food, music and dance. The event began with management and staff joining cultural groups in processions into a decorated gym hall. The company’s Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief, Dr Joseph Adeyeye, took part in the entrance alongside members of management and staff.

Igbo, Hausa and other cultural presentations formed part of the programme. Staff members wore traditional outfits and prepared local delicacies, while music and dance replaced the formal atmosphere associated with ordinary office events. A major feature of the gathering was the appearance of an Ulaga masquerade.

The masquerade entered through the hall’s doorway with its elongated black headdress lowered, then rose inside the venue as traditional drums played. The costume included long raffia strands and red fabric decorated with gold, silver and turquoise reflective materials, beads and metallic ornaments. The figure was led by Joel Nwokeoma, a member of the company’s Igbo community.

During the performance, the masquerade moved vigorously and repeatedly struck its head against the floor. The display ended after a member of the troupe approached, after which the masquerade left the hall to applause. The event also included recognition for staff.

Adetutu Sobowale was decorated as the 2026 Cultural Ambassador (Female). The celebration followed the installation of Adeyeye as Mazi Nwannedimba 1 na PUNCH, described in the supplied material as a friend of the Igbo community. The programme combined cultural performance with staff recognition, continuing PUNCH’s annual effort to showcase the diversity of its employees.