By Onyinye Okeke
The Afiaolu Nnewi 2018, Kicked off today with a grand opening ceremony at Eneta Edo square in Nnewi with the presence of the traditional rulers led by the paramount traditional ruler of Nnewi, Igwe K.O.N Orizu. Also in attendance were the Obi of Uruagu, Obi Charles Afamefuna Obi (Obi Ogidi IV) and the Obi Umudim, Obi Benneth Okafor (Amaukwu Umudim)all representing the various quarters of Nnewi.
The ceremony started with the Iwa-Oji by Igwe Orizu (the longest serving Monarch in West Africa) who prayed earnestly for the fruitfulness of ndi Nnewi. In his remarks, the Chairman of the event, the president general of Nzukora Nnewi, Sir Ugochukwu Udemezue (Ifeneti) welcomed the guests with his the opening remarks.
The first speech was delivered by Sir Barr. Emeka Etiaba (SAN) who was ably represented by his younger brother, Barr. Echezona Etiaba. Barr. Etiaba in his speech thanked ndi Nnewi for their support towards his family during and after her tenure as Governor of Anambra state. He went further to encourage them to support their own who are contesting for elective positions, and those currently doing well. He went on to support the Afiaolu event with some amount of money.
The presidential aspirant under the platform of the Young Progressive Party, Professor Kingsley Moghalu, who is also the Keynote speaker at the event was also present. Kingsley urged ndi Nnewi to support him, he said it is time to bring the needed development to both Nnewi and the nation at large.
Other prominent sons of Nnewi were present including Dr. Ifeanyi Ubah (the CEO, Capital Oil and Gas); the member representing Nnewi North/Nnewi South/Ekwusigo federal constituency, Hon. Chris Azubogu; the member representing Nnewi North at the Anambra state house of assembly, Honourable Amara Anazodo, Frank Udeogu, Smart Okafor and a host of many others.
The high poinof the event include the presentation of gifts to Igwe Orizu by some groups, including the Nnewi Women worldwide and the Nnewi Youth Forum chaired by Ambassador Paul Moneke.
The event ended with masquerade displays and dance among the people.
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