Preparations have intensified for the historic centenary celebration of Africa’s longest-serving monarch, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Dr. Kenneth Onyeneke Orizu III, CON, JP.
The revered monarch, renowned for his steadfast faith and exemplary leadership, turned 100 on October 30, 2025, and will be formally celebrated during his annual Ofala festival on 28th–29th December 2025, marking an extraordinary 62 years on the throne of his ancestors.
As part of this grand milestone, the Entertainment, Media and Events Promoters Association of Nigeria (EMEPAN) and the All Africa Media Network (AAMN) are staging “Egwu Onwa”- an African Intercultural Exchange, designed to attract royalties, diplomats, cultural custodians, and global institutions to honour African heritage in a night of elegance, reflection, and unity.
The cultural showcase will take place on December 27, 2025, at Igwe Nnewi Palace & Nnewi Museum.
According to the organisers, Egwu Onwa promises an enchanting evening celebrating Africa’s rich cultural identity through storytelling and folklore dramatisations, traditional dance performances, panel sessions on leadership, unity, and intergenerational knowledge,
art exhibition, and keynote sessions from global cultural institutions including the Teaching Artists Institute, Baltimore, USA.
Traditional rulers, international organisations, artists, and scholars are expected to grace the event.
A major highlight of the event will be the Royal Arrival, featuring a red carpet reception, sacred rites, a guided museum tour, and keynote presentations on culture, heritage preservation, and the legacy of Igwe Orizu III.
To ensure broad coverage across Nigeria and the African continent, Afia TV, a culture and lifestyle-oriented TV (DSTV channel 254) has been confirmed as the Official Media Partner for Egwu Onwa, bringing her expertise in cultural broadcasting and event documentation to amplify the celebration’s reach and significance.
“Egwu Onwa is more than a cultural showcase,” said Madu Amaobi, EMEPAN’s Head of Communication. “It is a convergence of royalty, art, history, and dialogue – honouring a monarch whose century-long life symbolises peace, integrity, and visionary leadership. This celebration is well-deserved for a great servant leader.”
He reaffirmed that the event will offer an unforgettable experience, uniting Africa’s past, present, and future in the warm spirit of cultural pride.
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