Obiano Salutes Obi Of Onitsha On His Ofala Silver Jubilee 

PAUL NWOSU PhD 

Former Governor of Anambra State, His Excellency, Chief Willie Obiano, has congratulated His Royal Majesty, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, CFR, mni, the Obi of Onitsha, on the 25th edition of the Ofala Festival under his reign, describing the Silver Jubilee as a remarkable milestone in the preservation of Onitsha’s rich cultural heritage and the advancement of its people.

Chief Obiano said the milestone celebrates not only the enduring majesty of the Onitsha throne but also 25 years of traditional leadership under a monarch whose wisdom, statesmanship and modern outlook have continued to strengthen the relevance of traditional institutions in contemporary society.

He described this year’s theme, “Igba Mbo, Iga N’Iru” (Strive and Advance), as a compelling call to perseverance, purposeful leadership and collective progress.

“The Silver Jubilee is a celebration of heritage, continuity and purposeful leadership. Igba Mbo, Iga N’Iru reminds us that progress is neither accidental nor automatic; it is earned through perseverance, wisdom and a shared determination to move forward.” Chief Obiano said.

The former governor commended Igwe Achebe for harmonising the preservation of Onitsha’s centuries-old traditions with a progressive vision that inspires confidence in the future. He noted that the monarch’s reign demonstrates that cultural heritage is not a relic of the past but a source of identity, wisdom and strength for future generations.

“Our traditions should not merely remind us of where we come from; they should inspire us to determine where we are going. The true test of heritage is our ability to preserve its values while building a better future for our children.” he added.

Chief Obiano urged Ndi Onitsha, particularly the younger generation at home and in the diaspora, to draw inspiration from the festival by investing their talents, enterprise and resources in the development of their community and the wider South-East.

He wished the Obi, the royal family and the entire Onitsha Kingdom a peaceful and memorable Silver Jubilee celebration, praying for the monarch’s continued good health, wisdom and long life on the throne.