The Forum of South-East Academic Doctors (FOSAD) heartily congratulates His Majesty, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, CFR, the Obi of Onitsha, on the occasion of his 85th birthday anniversary.
At 85, the Obi of Onitsha remains one of Nigeria’s most respected traditional rulers, a globally admired intellectual, and a symbol of dignity, wisdom, integrity, and purposeful leadership. His remarkable contributions to national development, cultural preservation, peacebuilding, and intellectual advancement have continued to inspire generations across Nigeria and beyond.
FOSAD notes that the reign of Igwe Achebe has brought immense honour not only to the Onitsha Kingdom but also to the entire South-East region through his exemplary commitment to justice, education, social harmony, and nation-building.
As a distinguished professional before ascending the throne and now one of Africa’s most influential monarchs, the Obi of Onitsha has consistently demonstrated that traditional institutions remain critical pillars for societal stability, moral guidance, and progressive development.
The Forum particularly commends the monarch for his intellectual depth, humility, statesmanship, and unwavering commitment to peace and unity. His voice has remained one of reason and moderation in moments of national uncertainty and social tension.
FOSAD therefore joins millions of admirers, sons and daughters of Onitsha Kingdom, traditional institutions, scholars, and patriots across the world in celebrating this extraordinary milestone in the life of a rare statesman and royal father.
However, while celebrating the revered monarch, FOSAD also considers it necessary to call for reconciliation and greater harmony between the Anambra State Government and the Obi of Onitsha in the broader interest of peace, unity, and development in the state.
The Forum respectfully urges Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo to take deliberate steps towards ending any perceived rift or strained relationship with the first-class monarch.
As major stakeholders in the progress of Anambra State, both the government and traditional institutions must work together in mutual respect and cooperation for the collective good of the people.
FOSAD believes that the Obi of Onitsha is not only a traditional ruler but also a national asset whose wealth of experience, global exposure, and moral authority remain invaluable to governance and development efforts in Anambra State and Nigeria at large.
At a time when the South-East region faces serious socio-political and economic challenges, unity among leaders and institutions has become more important than ever.
The Forum therefore appeals for constructive engagement, dialogue, and reconciliation between Governor Soludo and the revered monarch in order to strengthen social cohesion and foster a more united Anambra State.
FOSAD maintains that history has shown that societies thrive when political leaders and traditional institutions work together in an atmosphere of mutual trust, respect, and shared responsibility.
As Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe marks his 85th birthday, FOSAD prays that God grants him continued good health, wisdom, peace, and strength to continue serving humanity and offering fatherly guidance to future generations.
Happy 85th Birthday to a truly distinguished royal father, intellectual icon, and national statesman.
Signed
Dr Stephen Nwala
President, Forum of South East Academic Doctors (FOSAD)
Dr Uzor Ngoladi
Secretary General, Forum of South East Academic Doctors (FOSAD)
www.fosads.org
