KINGSLEY EBERE
Top Igbo community leader, Eze Dr. Christian Uchechukwu Nwachukwu, has been conferred with the honour as the Patron of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Lagos State Chapter.
P.M.EXPRESS reports that the honour was bestowed on him by the President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State, Chief Leonard Okafor, popularly known as Oba Ojoto, during the group’s General Assembly meeting held in Surulere, Lagos.
The well-attended meeting drew prominent Igbo traditional leaders, community stakeholders, market leaders, men and women, as well as members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo from various Local Council Areas across Lagos State.
The atmosphere was festive as cultural troupes performed traditional Igbo music and dances to welcome guests. The event also featured prayers for peace, unity, and the progress of Ndigbo in Lagos.
While conferring the title on Eze Nwachukwu, who is also known by his traditional title “Ochi Agha” of Obodoukwu town, Chief Okafor described him as a man of integrity whose contributions to the Igbo cause have been consistent and impactful.
Oba Ojoto explained that Eze Nwachukwu was found worthy of the award because of his outstanding leadership qualities, philanthropy, and unwavering passion for the welfare of Ndigbo in Lagos State and across Nigeria.
He noted that the Grand Patron title is reserved for individuals who have demonstrated selfless service, defended Igbo interests, and invested personal resources in community development, conflict resolution, and youth empowerment.
In his acceptance speech, Eze Dr. Christian Nwachukwu expressed gratitude to Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State for the recognition. He pledged to continue to use his position to promote unity among Ndigbo and to strengthen the relationship between Igbos and their host communities.
“This honour is not for me alone but for every Igbo man and woman striving to live peacefully and contribute meaningfully in Lagos,” he said.
“As Grand Patron, I will work with the leadership to ensure our people are protected, respected, and given a voice.”
Several dignitaries who spoke at the event lauded the choice of Eze Nwachukwu, describing him as a bridge-builder who has mediated in market disputes, supported widows, and sponsored cultural programmes that preserve Igbo heritage in the diaspora.
Chief Okafor concluded by calling on all Igbos in Lagos to rally around the new Patron and the state executive to foster peace, progress, and development. He added that Ohanaeze remains committed to promoting the social, economic, and cultural interests of Ndigbo wherever they reside.