President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, on his 85th birthday, describing him as a respected figure whose leadership has contributed significantly to unity, integrity, and national development.
In a statement released on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President praised the traditional ruler for his decades of service in both corporate and traditional leadership, noting that his life reflects excellence, discipline, and commitment to public good.
Tinubu described Igwe Achebe as “a symbol of unity, grace, and integrity,” and one of the most highly regarded traditional rulers in the South-East, with an outstanding background in the oil and gas industry and corporate governance.
The President recalled that before becoming the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Achebe had a distinguished career with Shell Petroleum, where he held senior positions in Nigeria and also worked across several international subsidiaries in countries including the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, Liberia, and Angola.
He noted that since ascending the throne, the monarch has continued to serve his people through peacebuilding efforts, youth empowerment initiatives, and contributions to socio-economic development.
Tinubu further commended the Obi of Onitsha for his role in promoting national unity and acting as a bridge between communities and government institutions through consistent dialogue and statesmanship.
According to the President, Igwe Achebe’s influence goes beyond Anambra State and the South-East, as his contributions to governance, corporate leadership, and community development have had a nationwide impact.
He joined the people of Onitsha, the Anambra State government, and the royal family in celebrating the milestone, praying for God to grant the monarch continued good health, wisdom, and strength.
Tinubu expressed hope that the traditional ruler would continue to provide guidance and leadership to his people and the nation in the years ahead.
BACKSTORY…
The message from President Bola Tinubu comes in celebration of the 85th birthday of the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, one of Nigeria’s most prominent traditional rulers and a respected voice in national affairs.
Igwe Achebe, who ascended the throne of Onitsha after a distinguished career in the oil and gas industry with Shell Petroleum, has long been regarded as a bridge between traditional leadership and modern governance. Over the years, he has played active roles in promoting peace, cultural preservation, youth empowerment, and dialogue between government and communities, particularly in the South-East.
As he marked his 85th birthday, tributes poured in from across the country, recognizing his contributions to nation-building and his influence in both corporate and traditional institutions.
It was in this context that President Tinubu issued a congratulatory message, describing the monarch as a symbol of unity, integrity, and grace. The President highlighted Igwe Achebe’s decades of service, both in his former corporate roles and his current position as a traditional ruler, noting his continued impact on national cohesion and development.
Tinubu’s tribute reflects broader recognition of the monarch’s standing as a statesman whose influence extends beyond Anambra State, earning him respect across Nigeria’s political, cultural, and business spheres.
