Truly, greatness is the essence of man. The sacrifice of one’s time, talent and resources in the service of humanity is indeed part of God’s purpose for mankind. Men and women who devote themselves to making God’s dreams for humanity endure leave behind a lasting legacy.
Such is the life and legacy of Chief Newton Jibunoh, OON, FNIOB, DSC, the Nnaobodo of Akwukwu-Igbo, who has now been honoured as the Olinzele Ahaba by the good people of Asaba.
The conferment, performed by His Royal Majesty, the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, was a remarkable celebration of service, character and enduring contributions to society. The occasion was well attended by distinguished men and women of goodwill from across Nigeria and beyond.
The Obi of Akwukwu-Igbo, HRM Obi David Azuka, JP, was ably represented by his Palace Chiefs and Ogbuenyis, accompanied by the Obi’s wife, Anasi Obi, Queen Anthonia Obi.
Also present to honour and support the renowned environmentalist and desert warrior were the Odogwu of Akwukwu-Igbo, Chief Sunny Okonta, the Odoziani of Akwukwu-Igbo, Chief Nelson Agbamuche; the Nwadialor of Anioma Nation, Chief Michael Onyekali Odiakosa; the Ubilikanku of Asaba, Ogbueshi Nabo – Chief Prof. Leroy C. Edozien; Hon. (Barr.) Bridget Anyafulu, Member representing Oshimili South Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly; Prof. Andy O. Egwunyenga, the Odoziani of Atuma-Iga and former Vice-Chancellor, Delta State University, Abraka; Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, former Chief Press Secretary to former Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; and several other distinguished Ogbueshis of Asaba.
The gathering also attracted an array of notable personalities, including literary icon Professor Wole Soyinka; Venerable Christian Okonkwor, the Vicar of St. Philip’s Anglican Church, Asaba; renowned broadcaster Rufai Oseni of Arise TV, widely recognised for his strong voice on accountability and good governance; veteran broadcaster Mr. Sonny Irabor; Brigadier General Hamisu Hassan (Rtd.), a respected former officer of the Nigerian Army; and Mr. Jahman Anikulapo, renowned journalist and cultural advocate, among many others.
The honour is a fitting recognition of Chief Newton Jibunoh’s remarkable lifetime of service, integrity, enterprise and commitment to the advancement of people, communities and the nation. His contributions have earned him the respect and admiration of many, and this recognition is a worthy tribute to a life devoted to service and humanity.
On behalf of myself, my family, the Jibunoh family and the entire Akwukwu-Igbo community, I warmly felicitate our distinguished father, the Nnaobodo of Akwukwu-Igbo, renowned environmentalist and now Olinzele Ahaba, on this milestone of honour bestowed by the good people of Asaba.
May God Almighty continue to bless him with good health, wisdom for many more years of impactful service and remarkable accomplishments.
Congratulations, Olinzele Ahaba!
Congratulations, Chief Newton Jibunoh, OON, FNIOB, DSC!
By Godfrey C. Osakwe, fnipr
Development Communication Specialist