By Chinedu Adonu

The people of Nnewi in Anambra State have announced grand plans to celebrate the 100th birthday of their revered traditional ruler, HRM Igwe Kenneth Onyeneke Nnajil Orizu III.

During a press briefing held in Enugu, Chief Ben Etiaba called for preservation of culture, stressing that it’s crucial for economic benefits like tourism and cultural exchange programmes, which allow one to learn about the culture of others.

He revealed that the celebration, scheduled for December 27th-28th, 2025, will include a dramatic display highlighting Orizu III’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s unity and cultural preservation.

Chief Etiaba emphasized that the event aims to showcase his enduring legacy in promoting peace, progress, and unity.

He stated that the dramatization will serve as a lasting tribute to his impact, ensuring that future generations appreciate the vital role traditional institutions play in Nigeria’s socio-cultural fabric amid a rapidly changing world.

“Today marks a momentous occasion as we gather for the press conference unveiling a dramatic production honoring the 100th birthday of His Royal Highness Igwe Dr. Kenneth Onyeneke Orizu III (Igwe KON Orizu III), the revered Obi of Otolo and Igwe of Nnewi Kingdom.

“Born on October 30, 1925, Igwe Orizu III ascended the throne in 1963, becoming Africa’s longest-reigning traditional ruler—a living embodiment of wisdom, peace, and progress.

This commemorative drama, inspired by events such as the cultural showcase Egwu Onwa, vividly portrays the extraordinary life and legacy of Igwe Orizu III.

“Through storytelling, folklore dramatizations, traditional dances, and sacred rites, the production celebrates his journey from royal heir to iconic monarch, highlighting his reforms, leadership, and enduring contributions to Nnewi and beyond.

“This drama is directed by Ikechukwu Erojikwe (PhD), Produced by Ifeanyi Eziukwu, with Chinonso Udeh as the Production Manager. It features a cast of notable Nollywood actors like Patience Ozokwor, Chinedu Ikedieze (Aki), Obi Okoli, Clemson Cornel Agbogidi, Emeka UBA, Mc Jaghee and a host of others.

“The drama preserves and revitalizes Igbo heritage in Nnewi, a pre-colonial kingdom renowned for its ancient monarchy dating back to the 15th century. It showcases Nnewi’s unique traditions, including the Ofala festival, royal succession, and progressive milestones promoting equality and unity. By blending folklore and performance, it reinforces communal values of humility, honesty, and intergenerational knowledge transmission.

He lauded Chief Cletus Ibeto for sponsoring the birthday celebration of Igwe Orizu lll, adding, this, “commemorative stage drama stands as a powerful performance art form that immortalizes the extraordinary legacy of His Royal Highness Igwe Dr. Kenneth Onyeneke Orizu III, transforming his century of wisdom, leadership, and cultural stewardship into a living tapestry of storytelling, dance, and ritual that will educate, inspire, and preserve Igbo heritage for generations to come.

“By documenting his remarkable journey through the evocative medium of theatre, the production ensures that his contributions to peace, progress, and unity endure beyond time, fostering a deeper appreciation of traditional institutions in a rapidly changing world.

“We extend our profound gratitude to Chief Cletus Ibeto for his generous sponsorship, which has made this poignant tribute possible through the exceptional execution by Pentagram Pictures and ArtsWax Communications, truly a testament to visionary patronage in celebrating Igbo excellence,”he said..