Amanze Chinonye
The historic town of Nnewi in Anambra State was enveloped in jubilation on Thursday, October 30, as thousands of residents, dignitaries, cultural leaders, and well-wishers from across Nigeria and beyond gathered to celebrate His Royal Highness, Igwe Dr. Kenneth Onyeneke Orizu III, CON, the 20th Obi of Otolo and Igwe of Nnewi kingdom, on the occasion of his 100th birthday and 62 years on the throne.
Born in Otolo, Nnewi on October 30, 1925, Igwe Orizu III ascended the throne on February 6, 1963 and was formally crowned on June 2, 1963, succeeding his father, Igwe Josiah Orizu II.
A descendant of the distinguished Nnofo royal dynasty, he now holds the record as Nigeria’s longest-reigning traditional ruler and one of the longest-serving monarchs in the world.
Educated at Hope Waddell College, Calabar, and New Bethel College, Onitsha, the young Kenneth Orizu brought modern insight to traditional leadership. Before enthronement, he worked in media and commerce, serving as a representative of the Outlook Group of Newspapers in the then Eastern Region and later in business in Kano. These experiences would later inform his pragmatic and reform-oriented leadership style.
From the outset of his reign, Igwe Orizu III demonstrated a deep commitment to peace, equality, and development. One of his most defining actions was the abolition of the Osu caste system in Nnewi, a groundbreaking move that made all Nnewi people “free-born.” He also introduced reforms to traditional marriage and funeral practices, curbing extravagance and promoting social cohesion.
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Under his guidance, Nnewi’s economic transformation blossomed. He backed the growth of the New Nnewi Market, encouraged trade and industrialisation, and positioned the town as a manufacturing hub often dubbed the “Japan of Africa” for its entrepreneurial spirit. His inclusive leadership and emphasis on harmony earned him the title “General of Peace.”
As a strong believer in education, Igwe Orizu III facilitated the establishment of a teachers’ training college – now part of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, personally donated land for the university’s College of Health Sciences in Nnewi. He continues to serve as Chairman of the Nnewi Igwe-in-Council and as a first-class traditional ruler in Anambra State.
Tributes were plentiful as Nigerians celebrated the monarch’s centenary. The Centre for Memories (Ncheta Ndigbo) described him as “a symbol of continuity, culture, and forward-thinking leadership.”
The Senator representing Anambra South, Senator Emmanuel Nwachukwu, lauded his reign, calling him “a rare royal jewel and a unifying figure whose reign of over six decades has anchored and fuelled peace and prosperity both in the Nnewi kingdom and beyond.” He added that the monarch’s “foresight in pushing for the industrialisation and commercial growth of Nnewi … has paid dividends.”
From the political space, Chief Dr. George Moghalu (Labour Party Governorship candidate in Anambra) offered his tribute, saying, “At 100, His Majesty remains strong, active, and full of wisdom – able to walk, work, and even read without glasses.
That is a rare blessing from God. Your wise counsel has guided many, myself included, and your reign has brought peace, unity, and progress to our beloved town.” He further prayed, “May the Almighty continue to bless you with good health, renewed strength, and enduring peace as you continue to reign in dignity and love.”
The centenary celebration at the Nnewi Palace was a vivid display of culture and social cohesion. Traditional troupes performed, masquerades danced, and guests from all sectors paid homage to the monarch whose life has bridged colonial rule, Nigeria’s independence, civil war, and decades of modernisation. Many described him as “a living legend whose life is a lesson in patience, purpose, and peace.”
Despite his advanced age, the monarch is reported to remain remarkably alert and active, a detail many attribute to divine favour. Across Nigeria, few rulers have left as enduring a mark as Igwe Dr. Kenneth Onyeneke Orizu III.
His century-long life blends tradition and innovation, authority and service. From abolishing discriminatory practices to fostering education, entrepreneurship, and peace, his legacy spans generations and communities.
As Nnewi celebrates this extraordinary milestone, his reign remains a beacon of what thoughtful, consistent leadership can achieve, reminding all that “Igbo nwere mmadu” the Igbo race – indeed have great men.
Long Live His Royal Highness, Igwe Dr. Kenneth Onyeneke Orizu III!
Long Live the Nnewi Kingdom!
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
