The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has joyfully celebrated and congratulated His Royal Majesty, Dr. Kenneth Onyeneke Nnaji Orizu III, CON, JP, the Igwe of Nnewi, on the occasion of his remarkable 100th birthday today.
In his congratulatory remarks, Governor Soludo stated that this significant centenary milestone in the life of Igwe Orizu III is a historic achievement which gladdens the heart and stirs admiration for a long-reigning monarch with undiminished vigour, wisdom, exceptional leadership, and dedication to the service of his people.
Reaching the age of 100 years, the Governor noted, is an extraordinary feat that symbolises divine favour, resilience, and the blessing of longevity. What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that His Royal Majesty has retained all his mental and physical faculties, continuing to discharge his royal duties with the same sagacity, clarity, and wisdom that have defined his illustrious reign for 62 years
According to the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, the governor stated that throughout the six decades, His Royal Majesty has been a bastion of stability in times of change, a voice of reason in moments of tension, and a bridge-builder when division threatened. His enduring reign represents continuity, institutional memory, and the preservation of cherished cultural heritage in an era of rapid transformation. The Igwe’s contributions to Nnewi, Anambra State and Nigeria transcend traditional ceremonial functions to include fostering peace and harmony, and creating an environment conducive to economic development and social progress. Thus his national honour as a Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and his appointment as a Justice of the Peace (JP) reflect the high esteem in which he is held at the national level.
Therefore, Governor Soludo again conveys his earnest congratulations and appreciation to His Royal Majesty, Dr. Kenneth Onyeneke Nnaji Orizu III, CON, JP, on his centenary celebration. He wishes the revered monarch greater divine grace, fulfillment, vitality, and many more years of wisdom and guidance as his reign continues to bring prosperity, peace, and progress to Nnewi and Anambra State.