The First Deputy Chairman of the Abia State Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Nelson Achilefu Mmerengwa, has officially conferred a prestigious chieftaincy title of “Agu Ji Ogu”, on the Honourable Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Chief Matthew Ekwuribe, in recognition of his outstanding service to culture, governance and community development.
The colourful installation ceremony took place at the Royal Palace Square, Isieketa Autonomous Community, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, where traditional rulers, community leaders, government officials and well-wishers gathered to witness the historic event.
Speaking shortly after the conferment, Eze Mmerengwa described Chief Ekwuribe as a worthy son of Abia State whose commitment to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage has brought renewed pride to the people.
The royal father noted that the honour was not merely ceremonial, but a reflection of the Commissioner’s dedication to uplifting traditional institutions, empowering creatives and fostering unity across communities.
He disclosed that his decision to confer the chieftaincy title of “Agu Ji Ogu” on Chief Ekwuribe was based on the Commissioner’s consistent support for grassroots cultural initiatives, his respect for traditional authority and his visible contributions to the growth of the creative economy in the state. According to him, Chief Ekwuribe has demonstrated humility, leadership and service, qualities befitting a title holder.
The monarch further commended Governor Alex Chioma Otti for his people-centred leadership style and for appointing individuals of proven integrity and capacity into key positions, noting that the current administration has shown uncommon commitment to cultural revival and inclusive governance in Abia State.
Responding, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Chief Matthew Ekwuribe, expressed deep gratitude to Eze Mmerengwa, the traditional council and the people of Isieketa Autonomous Community for the honour bestowed on him. He described the chieftaincy title as a call to greater service rather than a personal achievement.
Chief Ekwuribe noted that the recognition would further motivate him to work harder in promoting Abia’s rich cultural heritage, supporting artists and creative practitioners and strengthening collaboration between government and traditional institutions.
He further promised to remain committed to the vision of Governor Alex Otti in using culture and creativity as tools for economic growth, social cohesion and sustainable development across the state.
The member representing Isiala Ngwa North and Isiala Ngwa South Federal Constituency, Hon. Chief Ginger Onwusibe, Member representing Isiala Ngwa North State Constituency, Hon. Chief Collins Ugochukwu Iheonunekwu, Chief Ncheta Omerekpe, Chief Cyril Ishmael, Dr Alex Alozie among other distinguished personalities witnessed the Chieftaincy installation.
