By David Onwuchekwa, Nnewi
The ancient town of Nnewi, in Anambra State stood still on Sunday, October 26, 2025, as friends, dignitaries, and illustrious sons and daughters of the community as well as visitors converged on the royal palace of His Royal Highness, Igwe Kenneth Orizu III.
It was chieftaincy conferment event as one of the activities marking the celebration of a rare milestone, the monarch’s 100th birthday and 62 remarkable years on the throne.
The day, filled with colour, tradition, and pageantry witnessed the conferment of prestigious chieftaincy titles on over 40 distinguished personalities drawn from within and beyond Nnewi, in recognition of their exceptional service, leadership, and philanthropy.
Speaking at the grand event, the revered monarch, Igwe Orizu III, explained that the recipients were carefully selected after a meticulous vetting process, ensuring that only those who have demonstrated genuine commitment to the growth and wellbeing of the community were honoured.
“The conferment of titles is not merely ceremonial. It is an acknowledgment of years of hard work, dedication, and the desire to uplift humanity.
Each honouree has, in their own way, contributed to the peace, progress, and prestige of our kingdom, ”the Igwe said.
Among the notable recipients were Professor Okey Chidolue, a lawyer, scholar, and Sole Administrator of Premium Kidney Hospital, Nnewi, who received the title “Oduma Nnewi”; and Rt. Hon. Ben Chuks Nwosu, a former lawmaker, who was honoured with the title “Ogbalike Nnewi.”
A titled Chief who spoke to our Correspondent highlighted the rigorous standards that guide the conferment of traditional titles in Nnewi and across Igbo land.
“The process is deeply rooted in merit and integrity. Recipients must have shown distinguished service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to community development.
“Their works should speak to improving lives, fostering unity, and inspiring others through active participation in community initiatives, ”he said.
He further explained that while criteria might slightly differ across communities, the underlying principles remain the same, honouring men and women whose footprints of impact cannot be erased.
Expressing their delight after receiving their titles, the awardees thanked Igwe Orizu and the Nnewi Traditional Council for the recognition, describing it as both a privilege and a responsibility.
“This honour is not just for us, but for all who believe in service and humanity. It is a call to deepen our commitment to the advancement of Nnewi and our society at large. We’re deeply humbled and inspired by this recognition, ”one of the recipient had said.
Many community members and guests at the event hailed the Nnewi Monarch who even at 100 is still waxing strong as he was able to cap all the award recipients one after another.
They also hailed the awardees as people of honour, saying that their recognition was well-deserved, describing them as men of integrity, vision, and compassion whose influence extends beyond the boundaries of Nnewi.
The conferment ceremony, rich in cultural display and royal splendour, formed a key highlight of the ongoing centenary celebrations of Igwe Kenneth Orizu III, Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarch.
