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The Monarch of Nnewi, His Royal Highness Kenneth O.N. Orizu III, marked a historic milestone on December 28, 2025, celebrating his centenary birthday alongside 62 years on the Nnewi Ancient throne. The occasion was a vibrant mix of cultural pageantry, homage and the conferment of chieftaincy titles on distinguished sons of Nnewi.
The event drew notable personalities from across Nigeria and beyond, including Mr. Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential flag bearer, the Nnewi Improvement Union President, King Madi of Uganda, and Princess Sithabile of Mali, among others.
During the celebrations, Igwe Orizu III conferred chieftaincy titles on several prominent Nnewi sons, including Chief Royal Ifechukwu Asianya, Chief Executive Officer of Royal C. Investment Limited and the Onowu Ndigbo na Isolo, Lagos. The monarch prayed for the good health of his subjects, the prosperity of Nigeria, and urged Nigerians to continue living in peace and unity.
Receiving the honor, Chief Royal Asianya, who was bestowed the title ‘Mmilinezolu ora Nnewi’, described the recognition as both a privilege and a call to service. “I am grateful to God Almighty, our Igwe Orizu III, and the royal cabinet for this honor,” he said. “I believe that this is a call to duty, and I am always at the service of the palace and my people. Thank you all.”
The festivities began with a church service jointly presided over by Right Reverend Obi, Anglican Bishop, and Right Reverend Emma-David Okafoagu, Archbishop of the New Covenant of God Mission, Nnewi. It culminated at the Igwe’s palace with the Ofala Festival and the formal conferment of chieftaincy titles.
Cultural displays added vibrancy to the event, featuring traditional dance groups and masquerades, including the famed ‘Ajofia’ masquerade of Nnewi.
Following the palace ceremonies, Chief Royal Asianya hosted a reception at his residence in Ndimgbu, Otolo, Nnewi, entertaining friends, dignitaries, and well-wishers who had traveled from far and wide to celebrate the recognition with him. The gathering highlighted not only the prestige of the titles conferred but also the enduring unity and cultural pride of the Nnewi people.
