President Bola Tinubu congratulates Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha, on his 85th birthday. In a statement issued on Sunday through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu describes the traditional ruler as a symbol of unity, grace, and integrity, and credits him with contributing to national cohesion through decades of leadership.
Tinubu praises Igwe Achebe’s influence in the South-East and beyond, saying his legacy strengthens links between grassroots communities and government institutions. The president also highlights the monarch’s career prior to ascending the throne, including senior roles at Shell Petroleum, where he served as a director in Nigeria and held leadership positions across multiple Shell subsidiaries and countries.
According to Tinubu, the Obi’s transition from corporate leadership to traditional governance continues to reflect service to humanity, including peacebuilding, youth empowerment, and socio-economic development. Tinubu joins the royal family, the people of Onitsha, and residents of Anambra State in celebrating the milestone, and prays for the monarch’s continued good health, wisdom, and strength.