In a ceremony marked by cultural grandeur and royal symbolism, the Chairman of Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu (Igwe Ogadagidi), on Saturday, November 15th 2015 conferred a chieftaincy title of "Ononenyi 1 of Edem-Ani Ogwugwu Ancient Kingdom" on John Iroabuchi Okanyi who is the Chief of Staff to the traditional ruler.
The traditional title was bestowed on Okanyi during the Maiden Ofala Festival of Igwe Asadu who is also the traditional ruler of Edem-Ani Ogwugwu Ancient kingdom, Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State
Igwe Ogadagidi who described Okanyi as "his son and right-hand man" explained that the title is in recognition of his outstanding service to him and the palace, as well as his leadership, and unwavering dedication to community development.
According to Igwe Ogadagidi, "The chieftaincy title on my Chief of Staff is a symbolic gesture of the kingdom’s appreciation for his service to me, the People's Palace, the Edem-Ani Ogwugwu Ancient kingdom and humanity in general.
"Okanyi is like a son to me, he is so humble, honest and hard-working. He has exemplified what a true personal assistant and chief of staff should be - selfless, focused, and responsive to every duty.
"So, with the approval of the Igwe in council, the town union and by the authority bestowed on me as the traditional rural of this great ancient kingdom, I hereby confer on you, John Iroabuchi Okanyi and his wife Mrs. Blessing Chioma Okanyi, with the chieftaincy title of "Ononenyi 1 of Edem-Ani Ogwugwu Ancient Kingdom," Igwe Ogadagidi said.
The traditional ruler who is the immediate past Chairman, Southeast Council of Traditional Rulers charged Okanyi not to be carried away by his new title but to continue in his good service with humility, fortitude, and greater passion for humanity.
In an interview with our reporter shortly after receiving the chieftaincy title, Chief Okanyi who was emotional by the honour and good remarks made by Igwe Ogadagidi about him said "I returned the glory to God and His Royal Majesty."
"I thank God for a day like this, I thank God for my lovely wife for her unflinching support and to Igwe Ogadagidi for providing the platform for us to thrive and be recognized.
"For me, this chieftaincy title is a call for more service to my boss the palace, good people of Edem-Ani Ogwugwu Ancient kingdom and humanity in general, he said.
PROFILE OF JOHN IROABUCHI OKANYI at a glance
Born on September 30, 1979, John Iroabuchi Okanyi is a distinguished individual with a rich background in leadership, politics, and community service.
Hailing from the historic Edem-Ani Ogwugwu Ancient Kingdom, Okanyi’s roots are deeply embedded in the rich cultural heritage of Igboland. His parents, Ozor Mr David Okanyi (late) and Mrs Felicia Okanyi instilled in him the values of hard work, integrity and compassion.
EDUCATION
Okanyi’s educational journey began at National School, Edem-Ani, and continued at Edem Community Secondary School, Edem. He furthered his studies at Kogi State University where he earned a degree in Mass Communication. This foundation would later become the bedrock of his illustrious career.
BUSINESS VENTURE:
Okanyi is the chairman CEO Blessed J&J inc. Nigeria.
POLITICAL LIFE:
Okanyi’s political career has been marked by notable appointments and memberships,
including:
- One-time Special Assistant to the Speaker, Nsukka Legislative Council
- Member, relocation committee for the movement of the Nsukka abattoir from Ogige Market to
Ikpa Market
- Financial Secretary, Edem-Ani PDP (for eight years)
SOCIAL LIFE:
Okanyi is committed to giving back to his community through various social engagements:
- Patron, Peace and Progress Women Group, Edem-Ani - Member, Board of Trustees, Edem Support Initiative
- Member, D-Elite Club, Enugu
- Member, Edem-Ani Concerned Brothers (EDBA)
RELIGIOUS LIFE:
Okanyi has been actively involved in his faith, serving as:
- One-time President, Catholic Young Men Organization (CYMO), St. Paul’s Parish, Edem-
Ani
- One-time President, Catholic Youth Organization (CYON), St. Paul’s Parish, Edem-Ani
- Pioneer Catechist, St. John’s Catholic Station, Edem- Ani
- Member, Knights of St. Mulumba, Nigeria.
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION:
Okanyi’s outstanding contributions have earned him numerous awards, including:
- Award of Recognition from St. John's Anglican Church, Edem-Ani
- Most Well-Behaved Award, Department of Mass Communication, Kogi State University
CURRENT ROLE:
Today, Okanyi serves in an esteemed capacity as the Chief of Staff to HRM, Igwe Sir Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu (Ogadagidi) who is the Chairman, Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers; Immediate Past Chairman, Southeast Council of Traditional Rulers and Member, Board of Trustees, Council of Traditional Leaders of Africa (Nigeria Chapter)
FAMILY:
Okanyi is blessed with a loving family, happily married to Mrs Blessing Chioma Okanyi, with three amazing children.
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