By Ihichi Okachie
Walking into the bustling Modern Lecture theatre, venue of the 9th International Conference of the Association of Professional Counsellors in Nigeria (APROCON), you could immediately sense that this was more than just another academic gathering. Yes, the program was packed with insightful papers, panel discussions, and workshops, but what truly set this year’s conference apart were the side attractions that turned it into an unforgettable experience.
One of the most electrifying moments of the 9th International APROCON Conference came when the legendary Ohafia War Dance Troupe took the stage. Known across Nigeria for their dramatic displays of courage, rhythm, and cultural symbolism, the troupe brought a surge of excitement that transformed the conference hall into a theatre of heritage and pride.
Clad in their iconic costumes, the dancers moved in unison, re-enacting the bravery of Ohafia warriors of old. Their chants, drums, and bold gestures captivated the audience, drawing loud cheers and spontaneous ovations. For many participants, including international delegates, it was their first encounter with the famous war dance, and the energy was simply unforgettable.
The performance was more than entertainment; it was a living lesson in resilience, identity, and cultural psychology-concepts central to counselling practice. The bravery symbolized in the Ohafia War Dance echoed the conference’s broader message: counsellors must stand as warriors of hope, confronting the challenges of mental health, education, and social wellbeing with courage and determination.
By the time the troupe concluded, the entire hall was buzzing. Cameras flashed, social media lit up with clips, and participants carried the memory of that cultural spectacle into their reflections and conversations throughout the event. The Ohafia War Dance not only added colour to the conference but also reminded everyone that counselling in Africa must remain rooted in culture while embracing modern tools for global impact.
The first evening gave a taste of Nigeria’s soul. As the drums rolled and dancers in radiant traditional attire swept across the stage, delegates from across Nigeria and abroad were drawn into a cultural celebration. It wasn’t just entertainment, it was a reminder that counselling, at its core, is about connecting with the roots, rhythms, and realities of the people we serve. Many participants confessed that those dances and songs stayed in their minds long after the applause ended.
But the magic didn’t stop there. The networking dinner brought another kind of energy. The setting was warm, the laughter genuine, and the conversations free-flowing. At each table, counsellors, scholars, and students swapped stories of challenges and breakthroughs. The formal barriers of titles melted away. For some, this dinner was where collaborations were born, ideas for joint research, cross-country projects, and mentorship relationships sparked over plates of local cuisine.
The exhibitions and book launches cannot be forgotten in a hurry. Strolling through the exhibition stands felt like stepping into a treasure chest for counsellors – new books on psychology, innovative counselling tools, and even digital resources that hinted at the future of the profession. It was not just about the books themselves, but about celebrating the scholarship and dedication of APROCON members who continue to expand the body of knowledge in counselling.
The award ceremony was another highlight. One by one, outstanding practitioners, stakeholders and institutions were called to the stage, their journeys recounted with admiration. As they received plaques and standing ovations, there was a shared sense in the hall: this is what commitment to humanity looks like.
Young counsellors especially seemed inspired, seeing role models they could aspire to emulate.
After hours of rigorous academic sessions, delegates stepped outside to breathe in the sights and sounds of the host city. From historic landmarks to local markets, the tours revealed a slice of Nigerian life that was both enriching and refreshing. For international participants, it was a delightful introduction; for local delegates, it was a rediscovery of home through fresh eyes.
By the time the curtains fell, it was clear that the 9th International APROCON Conference had achieved something remarkable. It was not just about lectures and plenaries, it was about culture, connection, recognition, and community. Delegates left with notebooks full of ideas, contact lists full of new friends, and hearts full of pride at belonging to such a vibrant professional family.
The 9th International Conference wasn’t just attended; it was experienced. And that experience will ripple out in the practice, teaching, and advocacy work of every participant in the years to come, and posterity will continue to echo the name of Prof. Osorochi Patricia Obi, the National President of APROCON, and his idea-ladened executives who are tirelessly driving the developmental strides currently placing the Association in the league premium professional bodies.
Ihichi Okachie is a Public Affairs analyst.