The ancient Nkwerre Kingdom in Imo State came alive on Saturday as the four autonomous communities united for the 2026 Iri Ji Ofo Ano, Oriri Nkwerre, in a colourful celebration of culture, tradition and communal unity.
The event, held at the Nkwerre Civic Centre Ground and organised by the Nkwerre Aborigines Development Town Union (NADTU), attracted traditional rulers, community leaders, political figures, titled men and women, youths and prominent indigenes of the kingdom.
A major highlight of the celebration was the conferment of prestigious chieftaincy titles on distinguished sons of Nkwerre.
Among those honoured were Sir Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, who became The Lord Mayor of Nkwerre Ohaeshi; High Chief Nze Chinasa Nwaneri, The Lord Duke of Nkwerre Ohaeshi; Rt. Hon. Amara Chyna Iwuanyanwu as AmaraChukwu; and Chief Barr. Rex C. Añunobi (Sokom), who was installed as The Traditional Prime Minister of Nkwerre Ohaeshi.
Others honoured included Nze Barr. Hon. Chisom Ojukwu as The Lord Baron; Nze Obinwanne Chinaka as The Lord Earl; Hon. Engr. Frank Onyejiaka as Lord Chancellor; and Prince Eze Ugochukwu (Aka Ekpushi Onwa) as The Lord Field Marshal of Nkwerre Ohaeshi.
The ceremony, conducted in the presence of traditional rulers and community leaders, was described as a recognition of service, leadership and contributions to the development and unity of the ancient kingdom.
The celebration also featured spectacular performances by cultural groups including Akalikpo Umunachi, Ikpirikpe Amaegbu, Okwuamara, Ekere Mgbá Ukwube and the Isiawuodu Onusa Women Troupe.
Traditional music, dances and colourful costumes added to the excitement as the people celebrated the new yam harvest and reaffirmed their shared cultural identity.
The event was led by traditional authorities including HRH Eze Prince Nnannah, Eze Ishiala of Onusa Nkwerre Autonomous Community; HRH Eze Felix Ogbonnah, Opiaegbe of Amanano Nkwerre Autonomous Community; and HRH Eze Joel Udenkwo, Chairman, Nkwerre LGA Council of Traditional Rulers, alongside other traditional authorities.
The 2026 Iri Ji Ofo Ano ultimately became more than a New Yam Festival, serving as a powerful demonstration of Nkwerre’s cultural heritage, unity, tradition and commitment to honouring its distinguished sons.
