Okpai Celebrates Igwe Ugbome’s 60 Years on the Throne, Highlights Kingdom’s Economic Significance
BY WISDOM NDISIKA
OKPAI/Nigeria: The people of Okpai Kingdom, Ndokwa East Local Government Area, Delta State, came out in large numbers on Monday, December 30, 2024, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of His Royal Majesty, Igwe G. E. Ugbome II, JP, on the throne. The grand celebration, held at the royal palace, was themed “A Sunrise Worship Thanksgiving,” honouring the monarch’s life, achievements, and leadership since ascending the throne on November 8, 1964.
The event drew dignitaries from across Delta State and beyond, including Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, member of the House of Representatives representing Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West, and Ukwuani constituencies; Hon. Prince Emeka Osamuta, Deputy Majority Whip of the Delta State House of Assembl
y; and other prominent figures such as the Commissioner for the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC).
Prince Garvin Ugbome, one of the sons of the Igwe, extolled his father’s remarkable contributions to the development of Okpai Kingdom and Nigeria at large. Speaking on his father’s visionary efforts, Prince Garvin highlighted the Igwe’s pivotal role in facilitating the Okpai Independent Power Plant (IPP) establishment. “Through the donation of over 25 hectares of land to the Federal Government, His Royal Majesty’s efforts have ensured that the IPP contributes 15% of Nigeria’s energy supply,” he said. “This was the foundation for the directive by former President Olusegun Obasanjo that Okpai should enjoy uninterrupted electricity.”
Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, in his remarks, praised Igwe Ugbome’s enduring legacy, wishing him continued strength and wisdom to lead his people. He described the monarch as a symbol of resilience and a beacon of development for Ndokwa East.
Ejike Onuwa, a resident of Oluchi, lauded the monarch’s commitment to the welfare of his people, citing improvements in social amenities, road infrastructure, and education. “Although the roads are not yet perfect, they are significantly better than before. The constant electricity supply and the rising number of graduates from our community are testaments to His Royal Majesty’s dedication,” he noted.
Okpai Kingdom holds a unique position in Ndokwa East and Nigeria due to its economic contributions. Beyond hosting the IPP, which plays a vital role in stabilizing the national grid, the kingdom is also home to significant oil and gas operations. The region’s natural gas reserves have made it a cornerstone in Nigeria’s energy sector, fostering both local and national development.
The monarch’s leadership has further cemented Okpai’s importance, with his advocacy leading to the establishment of schools, health centers, and improved livelihoods for his people. Residents expressed hope that the state and federal governments would build on Igwe Ugbome’s achievements to address remaining challenges, particularly road infrastructure, to unlock the full potential of the kingdom.
As the celebrations continued with cultural displays and thanksgiving services, attendees reaffirmed their admiration for Igwe Ugbome’s exemplary reign, describing him as a unifying force and a catalyst for progress in Delta State.
