Delight Chinedum

Valentine Ozigbo, a leading figure in Nigerian business and politics has been conferred with the traditional chieftaincy title of Ugomba 1 of Amakofia Ukehe.

The honour, bestowed by His Royal Highness, Igwe Ignatius Ikechukwu Ojili, Oke-Ife I of Amakofia Ukehe, took place at the Old Ogbede Market Square, Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area of Enugu State, in the presence of esteemed assembly of traditional rulers, dignitaries, and well-wishers.

A multiple-award-winning Global CEO, Mr Ozigbo, who described the event as a “sacred trust” and “call to service,” expressed profound humility at receiving his first traditional title.

The name Ugomba, meaning “one who builds, unites, and uplifts,” is a fitting tribute to a man who has spent decades bridging divides in business, philanthropy, and public service.

“This honour is a reminder of who we are as Ndi Igbo—a people of resilience, dignity, and boundless promise,” Ozigbo said.

“To be named Ugomba is to be called to a higher duty: to lead with heart, serve with vision, and champion unity in the face of division.”

Ukehe, a town known for producing political giants such as the late Igwe J.U. Nwodo and former Enugu State Governor Dr Okwesilieze Nwodo, holds deep significance in Igbo history.

In his remarks, Ozigbo paid tribute to Chief John Nnia Nwodo, a former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, who he acknowledged as a mentor and source of encouragement in accepting the honour.

Among those conferred with titles alongside Ozigbo were Barr. Donald Amamgbo (Akajimba 1 N’Amakofia Ukehe), Lady Dr May Amamgbo (Onodu-Ugo N’Amakofia Ukehe), and Dr Benjamin Chika Ugwu (Okeagu Ndigbo 1 N’Amakofia Ukehe), reflecting a shared spirit of service and excellence.

In his address, Igwe Ojili praised Ozigbo’s consistent contributions to the upliftment of Igbo land, calling him “a son in whom the land is well pleased.”

Valentine Ozigbo is one of Nigeria’s most recognisable philanthropists who has positively impacted the lives of over 250,000 people through his pompous non-profit, VCO Foundation.

He is a 2025 Anambra gubernatorial hopeful who has been credited for championing an elevated style of politics which is uplifting and issues-based.

Also honoured were several distinguished Nigerians including Chief Charles Nwodo Jnr (Omeroha I), Hon Ikenna Nwodo (Omenuko I), High Chief Dubem Obaze (Okaa Obuluzo I), and Brigadier General Chiedozie Ekwenkenna Amoha (Ide Ome Mgbeobula), among others.

The event, which began at 12:00 noon, drew a large and enthusiastic crowd, featuring traditional performances, blessings from elders, and the reaffirmation of cultural pride.

As drums echoed and kolanuts were broken, the people of Ukehe welcomed a new son—one whose leadership journey now carries the sacred weight of tradition and the enduring expectations of a people longing for purposeful leadership.

“Ndi be anyi, ekele m unu,” Ozigbo concluded, offering a heartfelt Igbo expression of gratitude.