Archbishop Opoko Celebrates the Obi of Onitsha, on His Conferment as Honorary Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Letters

By Uruakpa Onyemaechi Charles | Methodist Blog

Great leaders are not only remembered for the thrones they occupy but for the values they uphold and the impact they make on humanity. Such is the story of His Majesty, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, OFR, Agbogidi, the revered Obi of Onitsha, whose influence and wisdom continue to shine as a beacon of hope and progress in Nigeria.

The Obi of Onitsha was recently conferred with the prestigious Honorary Fellowship of the Nigerian Academy of Letters (NAL),  an honor reserved for individuals whose intellectual sagacity, moral strength, and societal contributions are beyond measure.

Archbishop Opoko Extols the Obi of Onitsha

In a heartfelt message shared on his official Facebook handle, Most Rev. (Dr.) Chibuzo Raphael Opoko, TFSG, DOB, DSW, JP, the Archbishop of Umuahia, celebrated the royal father, describing him as an indefatigable and quintessential leader.

He wrote:

“On behalf of my immediate and extended family, the Clergy and laity of the Methodist Archdiocese of Umuahia and all men and women of goodwill in the South East and Nigeria in entirety, we rejoice with His Majesty Agbogidi, the Obi of Onitsha and the entire Onitsha Ancient Kingdom on the conferment of the Honorary Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Letters.

This apex and epitome of honour no doubt is predicated upon your sagacious intellect, moral compass, tireless effort, dedicated service, exceptional contribution in human upliftment, societal impact, indefatigable and quintessential leadership both in Ala Igbo and the Nation in entirety.

We celebrate together this great achievement and pray to the Lord God Almighty to continue to grant you the wisdom, knowledge and the spirit of discernment as you continue to provide qualitative leadership in this Nation.

Once again, Congratulations on this milestone achievement.”

A Quintessential and Indefatigable Leader

Why This Honour is Historic

The conferment of an Honorary Fellowship of the Nigerian Academy of Letters on Igwe Achebe is not just a personal recognition but a celebration of Igbo royalty, Nigerian intellectual excellence, and exemplary leadership.

• A Symbol of Culture and Wisdom: The Obi of Onitsha has consistently promoted cultural preservation and moral leadership.
• A National Figure: His contributions go beyond the South East, resonating across the entire nation.
• A Legacy of Service: His Majesty continues to inspire new generations with his commitment to peace, education, and nation-building. 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

A Shared Celebration

The Methodist Church, the people of Onitsha, Ala Igbo, and Nigeria at large celebrate this recognition with pride and thanksgiving. Indeed, the Obi of Onitsha’s leadership is a legacy in motion—an embodiment of wisdom, service, and royalty.

With this milestone, His Majesty, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, OFR, Agbogidi, the Obi of Onitsha, has further cemented his place as not only a traditional ruler but also a distinguished national leader.

His honor by the Nigerian Academy of Letters at its 27th Convocation and Investiture Ceremony, on Thursday, August 14, 2025. serves as a reminder that true leadership is measured by service, intellect, and humanity.

Once again, congratulations to Agbogidi, the Obi of Onitsha on this historic achievement.