By David Onwuchekwa, Nnewi
NNEWI—It was a day of colour, culture, and celebration as the traditional ruler of Nnewi, His Royal Highness, Igwe Kenneth Orizu III, conferred prestigious chieftaincy titles on deserving sons of the community and beyond in commemoration of his 100th birthday.
Chief Professor Okey Chidolue
Among the 45 eminent personalities honoured at the historic event held on Sunday, October 26, 2025, was Professor Okey Chidolue, a distinguished lawyer, academic, and Sole Administrator of Premium Kidney Hospital, Nnewi.
Prof Chidolue, former Executive Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority received the revered title of Oduma Nnewi, in recognition of his outstanding service, leadership, and philanthropic contributions to the growth and wellbeing of the community.
Prof. Chidolue, whose career spans corporate, immigration, and personal injury law, has over the years combined professional excellence with a deep passion for humanitarian service.
Chief Prof Chidolue (Right) with Chief Soge Egbuna
Through his leadership at the Premium Kidney Hospital, widely regarded as the largest renal care facility in the entire South East of Nigeria, he has helped provide world-class healthcare to countless patients, reducing the need for medical tourism abroad.
Speaking after receiving the title, the elated Professor expressed profound gratitude to Igwe Orizu and the Nnewi traditional council for the recognition.
“This honour is a call to greater service. I am deeply humbled and inspired to continue working for the betterment of Nnewi and society at large, ”he said.
Community members and well-wishers commended the choice of Prof. Chidolue, describing him as a man of vision, compassion, and integrity whose impact continues to elevate the image of Nnewi.
The conferment ceremony formed part of the grand activities marking Igwe Kenneth Orizu’s centenary celebration, a landmark event that attracted dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, celebrating a monarch whose reign has become synonymous with peace, progress, and unity in the Nnewi kingdom.
