By Douglas Princemola
It was a moment of celebration and cultural pride on Thursday as Governor Hope Uzodimma’s Special Adviser on Monitoring and Compliance, Nze Chinasa Nwaneri, was honoured with the revered traditional title of High Chief Chinasaramokwu I of Owere Nchi-Ise during the 2026 Oru Owere Cultural Festival in Owerri Municipal Council, Imo State.
The colourful coronation ceremony, held at the Palace of the Council of Imo State Traditional Rulers (Obi Ndi Eze Imo) in Mbari, Owerri, attracted traditional rulers, senior government officials, political leaders, community stakeholders, and other distinguished guests from within and outside the state.
The prestigious title was jointly conferred by the traditional rulers of the five autonomous communities that make up Owere Nchi-Ise, in recognition of Nwaneri’s contributions to community development, public service, and his long-standing relationship with the people of Owerri Municipal.
Speaking during the event, the Traditional Ruler of Umuihugba Umuodu Autonomous Community, His Royal Highness Eze Kelvin Tochukwu Ihebom, described the honour as well deserved. He said Nwaneri had consistently demonstrated commitment to the progress of the community and remained a worthy ambassador of Owere Nchi-Ise.
The monarch also praised Governor Hope Uzodimma for his administration’s development efforts in Owerri Municipal, particularly in infrastructure and human capital development.
Also speaking, the President General of Umuihugba Umuodu Autonomous Community and President of all Presidents General in Owerri Municipal Council, Hon. Sir Osita Udemba, said the recognition reflected the confidence and respect Nwaneri had earned through years of dedicated service. He added that the Oru Owere Cultural Festival continues to promote unity, peace, and the rich cultural heritage of the people.
Udemba called on residents of Owerri Municipal, both indigenes and non-indigenes, to continue living peacefully and supporting initiatives that promote the growth and development of the area.
In his acceptance speech, High Chief Chinasaramokwu I expressed gratitude to the traditional rulers and people of Owere Nchi-Ise for finding him worthy of the honour. He pledged to continue working for peace, unity, and the development of Owerri Municipal while maintaining a close relationship with the people.
The ceremony ended with a grand reception attended by top government officials, political associates, traditional rulers, family members, friends, and well-wishers, who celebrated the conferment of the prestigious title in an atmosphere filled with culture, music, and goodwill.
