The community of Imeoha Nkerefi in Nkanu East LGA of Enugu State came alive with song and colour as indigenes and guests gathered for the 2025 Iri Ji Festival.
The celebration, held on Saturday October 25, mixed ancient tradition, compassion and disciplined leadership under HRH Igwe Luke Ogbu Ogbuta Okorie, the Ezeanyanyaanaecheoha I of Imeoha Nkerefi.
The monarch marked the occasion by awarding ₦6.2 million in bursaries to 62 students drawn from Nkerefi’s four autonomous communities.
“Instead of feasting alone, we invest in the destiny of our children,” he said. “Education is the light that will keep Nkerefi shining.”
The gesture reflected the palace’s belief that culture must build lives, not just entertain.
Igwe Ogbuta Okorie reaffirmed support for ongoing free medical outreaches across Enugu, Abia and Lagos States and unveiled plans for a Smart Green School in Imeoha Nkerefi.
He thanked Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for inclusive governance and rural projects, but urged further attention.
“Your Excellency, we thank you sincerely,” he said. “Yet, like Oliver Twist, we humbly ask for more—better roads, clean water, a health centre, and a higher institution for Nkerefi.”
The monarch called for an airport or auxiliary aviation hub within Nkerefi, noting that its wide land and terrain favour such investment.
He reaffirmed partnership with Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing, describing it as a door to agro-industrial growth. “Our land is open to investors in renewable energy, light manufacturing and agro-processing,” he said.
The festivities climaxed with a Thanksgiving Service at St Luke’s Methodist Church on Sunday October 26.
Hon. Frank Anioma, representing Governor Mbah, conveyed the state’s goodwill.
Traditional rulers present included HRH Igwe Michael Ogbonnaya of Ishienu and HRH Igwe Onukwube** of Enuogu.
The Iri Ji Planning Committee led by Dr Patrick Njoku earned praise for flawless coordination, while Hon. Chukwudi Bernard, Head of Media and Publicity, ensured professional coverage.
In his closing prayer, the royal father said, “May peace dwell in Nkerefi; may our barns overflow; may our youths rise and shine.”
He thanked his wife, the chiefs, clergy, youths and security agencies for their roles.
As drums faded and the yam fires cooled, Imeoha Nkerefi stood renewed—proud of its heritage and hopeful for its tomorrow.
