By Nnaji Ugbaji


The people of Ugwu Ibere Autonomous Community, Ikwuano Local Government Area, Abia State on Thursday, Jan. 2,  2025,  came together in grand  celebration of a remarkable milestone in their history. Though it was one event, but it was an epochal celebration of landmarks in the community's history: The 25th coronation anniversary of His Royal Majesty, Eze Prof Sir Ezeudo Samuel Ifenwanta;  His 83rd birthday, and the 74th birthday of his amiable wife, Ugoeze Lady Catherine Ifenwanta.


The colourful, joyous celebration  held at Ibere Comprehensive Secondary School Field, Ahia Orie, Ibere,  attracted distinguished well wishers, including: Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu; Senator Austin Akobundu, and  Abia State Governor Alex Otti; (represented by the Chairman of Ikwuano LGA, Dr Anthony Nwaubani),


The member representing the South East geopolitical zone in the North East Development Commission, Chief Sam Onuigbo, Senator Nkechi Nwogu, and a host of others including other Royal Fathers, clergymen, and a host of prominent Nigerians.


In his remarks, Governor Alex Otti applauded Eze Ifenwanta’s exceptional leadership, which has fostered peace and progress in the community for 25 years. Senator  Akobundu pledged to attract beneficial projects to Ugwu Ibere, ensuring sustainable development.


Also speaking at the occasion, Rt Hon  Kalu highlighted the critical role of communities in national development. "The impact or success of any government intervention programme can only be effectively measured at the community level,” he remarked, adding that communities form the foundation of the Federation.


The Deputy Speaker further described Eze Ifenwanta as “a gift to the present generation,” attributing the prevailing peace and harmony in Ugwu Ibere to the monarch’s leadership style and reliance on God. "When we see people like you, we celebrate you. We celebrate you because of the role you play in fostering national loyalty and cohesion," he noted


Eze Ifenwanta announced the community’s decision to donate land for the establishment of a polytechnic, urging government officials and stakeholders to support the initiative.


In his sermon, Rt Rev Ikechukwu Nkulor, the Methodist Bishop of Umuahia East Diocese, praised the Royal Father as a man of godly influence and urged Christians to cultivate gratitude as a virtue


Chief  Onuigbo, the celebrants’ son-in-law, described Eze Ifenwanta as a visionary leader with exceptional qualities.


The Royal Father’s daughter, Pastor Dame Chinyere Ngozi Onuigbo, highlighted her parents’ unwavering discipline and faith as pillars of their achievements.


The event featured the conferment of chieftaincy titles and awards on deserving individuals, further solidifying the day as a historic occasion for Ugwu Ibere.


A Day to Remember

This extraordinary celebration reflected the indomitable spirit of Ugwu Ibere and its revered monarch, a leader whose 25 years of service have reinforced unity, and created growth, and peace.


Let us join in wishing His Royal Majesty, Eze Prof Sir Ezeudo Samuel Ifenwanta, and Ugoeze Lady Catherine Ifenwanta continued good health, wisdom, and grace as they guide Ugwu Ibere towards a brighter future