KINGSLEY EBERE
The Igbo community in Lagos and friends of Ndigbo across Nigeria will on a date to be announced soon gather to celebrate a major milestone as Eze Dr. Christian Nwachukwu, the Ezendigbo of Lagos State, marks 27 years of leadership and stewardship to Ndigbo.
The anniversary, which has been described by community leaders as a celebration of leadership, heritage and peaceful coexistence, will bring together Igbo sons and daughters from across Nigeria and the diaspora. It will also host members of the Hausa community, Yoruba host communities, traditional rulers, government officials and other stakeholders committed to national unity.
The 27 years of Eze Nwachukwu’s purposeful leadership was formally attested to and honoured with a certificate of recognition by the late Oba Adeyinka Oyekan II, former Oba of Lagos. That recognition, organisers said, remains a testament to the cordial relationship between Ndigbo and their Lagos hosts over the decades.
A key highlight of the celebration will be the conferment of a Special Award on His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in recognition of his contributions to national unity, democratic governance and inclusive leadership. Organisers said the award reflects the Igbo community’s appreciation for leadership that promotes cohesion across Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups.
Expected at the event are the Executive Governor of Lagos State, the Deputy Governor, members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers from across the country, religious leaders, business leaders and other leaders of thought. Their presence, according to the planning committee, underscores the importance of inter-ethnic harmony in Africa’s largest commercial city.
The anniversary will feature a grand cultural carnival showcasing music, dance, fashion and cuisine from different ethnic groups in Nigeria. From Igbo masquerades and Atilogwu to Hausa durbar displays and Yoruba cultural troupes, the event aims to project Nigeria’s diversity as strength rather than division.
Speaking ahead of the celebration, palace officials said Eze Nwachukwu’s 27 years have been defined by service to the Igbo community, mediation in communal matters, promotion of education and youth empowerment, and continuous engagement with government and traditional institutions to advance peace in Lagos.
“Ezendigbo Lagos has been a bridge builder,” a palace aide said. “This celebration is not just about one man or one throne. It is about what we can achieve together when we respect culture, honour leadership, and choose unity.”
The organisers are calling on all Ndigbo in Lagos and beyond, as well as Nigerians of all backgrounds, to come out and celebrate leadership, heritage and oneness.
“It promises to be colourful. It promises to be historic,” the committee stated.
Further details on date, venue and participation will be announced by the palace in due course.
