In a graceful gathering that united royalty, political actors and statesmen across continents, a prominent Imo born scholar, philanthropist, and doyen of oil business , Dr. Ejike Chukwu MON was among a carefully select dignitaries and invited special guests at a private reception hosted by the former Governor of Edo State, His Excellency Dr. Gabriel Igbinedion (Esama of Benin Kingdom), in Abuja.
The exclusive reception was organized in honour of the visiting Prime Minister of Jamaica, HE Andrew Holness, as part of a cultural and diplomatic gesture by the Igbinedion family — a lineage known for its towering legacy in Nigerian politics, business, and philanthropy, Publisher of 4th Estate Reporters, Njoku Macdonald Obinna , captured.
Held at the Igbinedion country home in Abuja, the event exuded warmth, social refinement, and cultural elegance. Guests in attendance included former Deputy Governor of Edo State, HE Engr. Omobayo Godwins Miracle, respected diplomats, industry leaders, and traditional royalty — all gathered in conviviality to celebrate friendship between nations.
Dr. Ejike Chukwu MON, known for his philanthropic reach, business influence, and nation-building values, stood as a towering presence among the crème de la crème. Frequently acknowledged for his contributions to national development and his role as a bridge between communities, Dr. Chukwu’s presence was both symbolic and influential — representing Nigerian excellence on a global platform.
The event’s most stirring highlight came with the arrival of Hajiya Tura’i Yar’ Adua, wife of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. Her entrance brought both emotional depth and political memory to the gathering, as guests acknowledged her enduring grace and the legacy of her late husband.
Adding to the colour of the evening was the distinguished presence of the Emir of Kano—Alhaji Aminymu Ado Bayero— whose attendance lent regal prestige and further reflected the multicultural unity present at the reception.
Gabriel Igbinedion, fondly called the Esama of Benin, remains a revered patriarch in Nigeria. His legacy, built over decades, continues through his children — including Lucky Igbinedion, former governor of Edo State — and is now echoed in events like this, where diplomacy meets tradition under his roof. Though advanced in age, the elder statesman’s influence remains magnetic, pulling together the threads of generations and nations.
As the evening unfolded in laughter, toasts, and shared memories, Dr. Ejike Chukwu MON was seen exchanging pleasantries with dignitaries, including the Jamaican Prime Minister and members of the Igbinedion family, solidifying his image as one of Nigeria’s quiet powerhouses of influence.
The reception, though private, served as a reminder of the enduring relevance of cultural diplomacy, intercontinental relationships, and the roles played by men and women of character like Dr. Ejike Chukwu — whose presence continues to echo across national and international spaces.