the House of Igbinedion today launched ‘The Chronicles of a Legend’, a new book chronicling the life and enduring legacy of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of the Benin Kingdom. The event, held in Benin City, drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, including former Senate President Bukola Saraki, former Delta State Governor James Ibori, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and the Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado-Bayero.
The publication honours Igbinedion’s landmark contributions to education, transport, banking, and entrepreneurship—sectors in which he pioneered private ventures that continue to shape lives across Nigeria.
Speaking at the launch, Peter Obi called for greater national recognition of Igbinedion’s accomplishments. “We live in a country that doesn’t celebrate those who are supposed to be celebrated. If we do, the celebration would have been more,” Obi remarked. “Who is representing Ministry of Education here? He built the first university. Who is representing Ministry of Transport? He did the first airline. He was among the first three to be given banking licenses.”
Obi stressed that Igbinedion’s impact in employment and education should be the standard for national honours: “The GCAFR and GCON should be people who are entrepreneurial and productive, not us, the politicians. If they like, they can remove our own and give them, so that the country can produce and be able to employ people. Igbinedion deserves more, not just national honour, all the support the government can give him.”
He pledged a long-term commitment to the Esama’s legacy: “Endowment is not paid in one day. Endowment continues. And I assure you that annually, the endowment fund will see Mr. Peter Obi’s little contribution — at least for the next 10 years, as long as I live.”
James Ibori, former governor of Delta State, presented the book formally and made a significant financial commitment to support Igbinedion University, Okada. “I want to target specifically the Department of Economics as a chair… So Mr. VC, for the chair, I want to put N50 million. And for the university, another N50 million,” he announced to applause.
Ibori reflected warmly on his personal bond with the Esama: “This man we’re talking about… he’s a father to all of us. Esama established a nursery school, a primary school, a secondary school, and a university. What else can a man do for humanity? He has done his best, and it is now our turn.”
The event also saw official representation from the federal government and the Edo State government, reinforcing Igbinedion’s stature as a national figure. George Akume represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while Dennis Idahosa stood in for the Edo State Governor.
The Chronicles of a Legend stands as a testament to Chief Igbinedion’s contributions to nation-building. As echoed throughout the launch, the Esama’s life story is more than a biography—it is a blueprint for visionary leadership, philanthropy, and entrepreneurial nation-building.
