By: Ijeoma Sandra, Nnewi.
It was an atmosphere of celebration as the traditional ruler of the Nnewi community, His Royal Highness, Igwe Kenneth Orizu III, conferred prestigious chieftaincy titles on deserving members of the community and beyond, in commemoration of his 100th birthday.
Over 40 eminent personalities were honoured at the historic event held on Sunday, October 26, 2025. They were selected on merit after a meticulous search process.
His Royal Highness, who is the longest-serving monarch in Igbo land, said the awardees were honoured in recognition of their outstanding service, leadership, and philanthropic contributions to the growth and well-being of the community.
His Royal Highness, Igwe Orizu III, conferred chieftaincy titles on notable members of the Nnewi community, including Professor Okey Chidolue, who received the title “Oduma Nnewi,” and Rt. Hon. Ben Chuks Nwosu, who received the title “Ogbalike Nnewi,” as part of the Igwe’s centenary birthday celebration.
According to a titled chief who spoke to our correspondent at the palace, the criteria for the conferment of titles in Nnewi and other Igbo communities are well spelled out.
“Distinguished service and contributions to the development and progress of the community are among the key criteria. The recipients must have made efforts to improve the lives of community members through charitable work.
There should also be demonstrated leadership skills, the ability to inspire others, and active participation in community activities and initiatives.
The merit award, therefore, is in recognition of individual achievements and accomplishments in various fields.
These criteria may vary depending on the community and the traditional ruler conferring the titles. In some cases, titles may be conferred based on specific achievements or contributions, while in others, they may be awarded based on a person’s overall impact on the community,” he added.
Igwe Orizu III’s conferment of titles, including those of “Oduma Nnewi” and “Ogbalike Nnewi,” was part of his centenary birthday celebration. The honours were bestowed in recognition of the awardees’ outstanding contributions and dedicated service to the community.
Speaking on the considerations for the award of chieftaincy titles in Nnewi and Igbo land, another titled chief explained:
“Generally, the criteria for the conferment of titles in Nnewi and other Igbo communities include distinguished service and contributions to the development and progress of the community.
Recipients must demonstrate leadership, a willingness to inspire others, and active participation in community initiatives. These factors, along with charitable works and personal achievements, are taken into account when considering individuals for recognition.”
Speaking after receiving his title, an elated Professor Chidolue 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 Professor 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 III’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.