President Bola Tinubu has been honoured with the chieftaincy title of ‘Dike si mba Anambra’ by traditional rulers representing all 179 communities in Anambra State. The title was conferred by the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, also known as Ogalagidi, Eze Iweka III. The ceremony took place at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka during the President’s one-day working visit to the state.
According to Igwe Iweka, “This is a title from all the royal fathers in the 179 communities of Anambra State. The title is called ‘Dike si mba Anambra’, meaning ‘warrior from the Diaspora’, and it is in recognition of your good works across the country.” He praised the President’s contributions to infrastructure development, especially critical roads linking the Second Niger Bridge and other rural communities. The monarch added, “We welcome you to Anambra, and we salute you for honouring our invitation. Your efforts in governance are positively impacting every nook and cranny of the country.”
Legacy projects commissioned by Tinubu in Anambra
President Tinubu visited the state to commission major projects completed by Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration. These included the New State Government House, the new Governor’s Lodge, Solution Fun City, the Emeka Anyaoku Institute for International Studies and Diplomacy, and key infrastructure projects at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (UNIZIK).
Speaking at the event, Tinubu said, “Our diversity must lead to prosperity; we must work together to lead Nigeria. We must commit ourselves for the development of the country.” He added, “I feel deeply honoured by the conferment of a chieftaincy title by the royal fathers of this state. Today is not only historic, but one which I will forever treasure for the rest of my life.”
Top dignitaries present at the historic ceremony
Several top dignitaries were in attendance, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, and Minister of Works Dave Umahi. The presence of these political leaders underscores the significance of the visit and the respect accorded to the President in the Southeast region.
Tinubu’s visit to Anambra marks a major milestone in federal-state relations and reflects his administration’s ongoing push for national development and unity.
His recognition as ‘Dike si mba Anambra’ is seen as a rare honour from a region that has historically felt excluded from national politics. The title and warm reception from traditional rulers highlight growing efforts to foster peace, inclusivity, and collaboration in Nigeria.