The Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI) has felicitated the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, on the occasion of his 85th birthday anniversary.
This is contained in a statement by AANI’s National Publicity Secretary, Ifeanyi Ngama, on Thursday in Abuja.
Ngama said that the President of the association, Emmanuel Okafor, speaking on behalf of the National Executive Committee and members, described the traditional ruler as a symbol of wisdom, statesmanship and cultural pride.
Okafor said that Achebe’s life reflected transformational leadership and national service.
According to him, the traditional ruler holds a special place in the history of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, having been a member of its maiden Senior Executive Course (SEC 1) in 1979.
He noted that the set played a pioneering role in shaping strategic leadership development and policy discourse in Nigeria.
He also commended Achebe’s distinguished professional career with Shell Petroleum Development Company and Shell International, where he rose to the position of Senior Corporate Adviser.
The AANI president noted that since ascending the throne as the 21st Obi of Onitsha, the traditional ruler had continued to promote culture and tradition, while advancing education, peace, national unity and youth development.
”AANI celebrates not only a royal father of global repute, but also a mentor, bridge-builder, patriot and elder statesman whose influence transcends generations and borders,” he said.
He added that Achebe’s life at 85 represented a legacy of integrity, excellence and service to humanity.
He prayed for continued good health, wisdom and many more years of impactful service for the royal father.(NAN)
