HRH Igwe Kenneth Orizu III
By David Onwuchekwa, Nnewi
Nnewi Kingdom in Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra State was agog with celebration as its traditional ruler, His Royal Highness Igwe Dr Kenneth Orizu III, marked his 100th birthday alongside his 62nd year on the throne during the 2025 Ofala Festival.
The historic celebration, held on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at the royal palace in Nnewi, attracted dignitaries from across the country. Among those in attendance were the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi; Chairman of Ibeto Group, Dr Cletus Ibeto (Omekannaya); Chairman of Chicason Group, Chief Dr Alexander Chika Okafor (Eze Nwachinaemelu Nnewi); Chairman of Louis Carter Group, Chief Sir Louis Onwugbenu (Okpata Ozuora Nnewi); Chairman of Ngobros Group, Prince Humphrey Ngonadi.
Others are Anambra State Commissioner for Industry, Hon. Christian Udechukwu; former Federal Commissioner, Public Complaints Commission, Prince Samben Nwosu; Major General Tabugbo Udeh; Chief Ben Etiaba; Chief Emeka Etiaba (SAN), among many others.
Tagged “Centenary Ofala,” this year’s festival featured a series of activities designed to commemorate the rare milestone. Highlights included the commissioning of a Palace Hall built by Dr Cletus Ibeto, the conferment of chieftaincy titles on deserving individuals, the launch of a book, and colourful cultural displays.
Despite his age, Igwe Orizu, reputed to be the longest-serving monarch alive, celebrated the Ofala in sound health. He was seen receiving visitors from far and near, who came to pay homage and receive royal blessings.
In his address, the Crown Prince, Dr Obianefo Charles Orizu (Obinechendo), described the centenary and 62 years on the throne as historic milestones not only for the monarch but for the entire Nnewi Kingdom.
He said the Igwe had become a symbol of stability, wisdom and inspiration, noting that his reign has guaranteed peace and unity across generations in the ancient kingdom.
“Igwe Kenneth Orizu III has bridged what could have been a generational gap in Nnewi. This has turned out to be a great advantage for our people,” the Crown Prince said.
Also speaking, Chief Dr Alexander Chika Okafor described the monarch as a silent achiever and a visionary leader of impeccable character.
According to him, “Igwe Kenneth Orizu III is reserved and gentle by nature. He does not sing his praises nor delight in praise singers. He is content with who he is and what God has given him. He is a practicing, God-fearing Christian who lives by example.”
One of the newly installed title holders, Chief Dr Sir Wilson Onyeka, who received the title Igirigindu Nnewi, expressed gratitude to God, the Igwe and the Nnewi community for the honour.
He described Igwe Orizu as a simple, generous and humorous leader, adding that his long life is a testament to his peaceful disposition.
“Our Igwe treats everyone as his own and harbours no ill will. His life is worthy of emulation,” Onyeka said.
