Bianca Ojukwu, the widow of late Biafran leader Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, was honored yesterday with the prestigious traditional title of “Aka Ekpuchi Onwa.” The title, her 10th in the South-East region, was conferred by His Royal Highness, Igwe Kenneth Orizu III, the monarch of the Nnewi Ancient Kingdom, during the 61st Ofala Festival.

Igwe Orizu III, born in 1925, is the longest-serving monarch in Nigeria, having ascended the throne on June 2, 1963, as the 20th Igwe of Nnewi. At 100 years old, he is regarded as the supreme traditional and spiritual leader of Nnewi, a kingdom with a monarchy that dates back to the 15th century. The throne’s succession follows a patrilineal system based on primogeniture, and Igwe Orizu III succeeded his father, HRH Josiah Nnaji Igwe Orizu II.

The grand ceremony, held in Nnewi, attracted dignitaries from across Igboland, including governors, senators, businessmen, and industrialists. The Ofala Festival featured vibrant cultural displays, including traditional dance troupes, masquerades, and musical performances, underscoring the region’s rich heritage.

Bianca Ojukwu, who was celebrated at the event, has held several high-profile roles, including serving as a presidential advisor, Nigeria’s ambassador to Ghana and Spain, and as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations World Tourism Organization. She currently serves as Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. The conferment of the title further cements her status as a prominent figure in both traditional and political spheres in Nigeria.