The Imo State Government has approved the conferment of state honours on the late prominent traditional ruler, Eze Ben Obi, of Ubulu Ihejiofor, alongside other distinguished personalities, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the growth and development of the state.
The honour, which forms part of activities marking Imo State at 50, was approved by Governor Hope Uzodimma, CON. It is aimed at celebrating individuals who have left enduring legacies in leadership, culture, governance, community service and the promotion of the state’s image within and outside Nigeria.
Eze Ben Obi, who reigned during a period widely regarded as significant in the traditional and socio-cultural history of Imo State, was praised for his commitment to peace, unity and grassroots development. His leadership style and influence, according to government officials, helped strengthen traditional institutions and foster harmony among communities.
The state government noted that the inclusion of the late monarch underscores its resolve to recognise not only living achievers but also deceased icons whose sacrifices and service laid the foundation for present-day progress.
Other recipients, cutting across various sectors including public service, politics, business, culture and community leadership, are also expected to be formally decorated at a special ceremony to be announced by the government.
According to the organisers, the Imo @ 50 Star Honours is designed to immortalise excellence and inspire future generations to selfless service, patriotism and dedication to the development of Imo State.
The awards ceremony is expected to attract top government officials, traditional rulers, captains of industry and dignitaries from across the country.
Full list of awardees
A) Golden Star Governor of Imo State
(GSGI)
Reserved for serving or former Governors who extraordinarily distinguished themselves in service to Imo State
H.E. Chief Sam Onunaka Mbakwe (Posthumous)
H.E. Senator Hope Uzodimma, CON
B) Grand Service Star of Imo State
(GSSI)
For exceptional service and contribution to the growth and development of Imo State
H.E Major-General Ike Omar Sanda Nwachukwu (rtd)
H.E. Rear Admiral Allison Madueke (rtd)
H.E. Cmdre. James Aneke (rtd)
H.E. Chief Achike Udenwa
H.E. Chief Ikedi Ohakim
H.E. Senator Rochas Anayo Okorocha
H.E. Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha
Hon. Justice Chioma Egondu Nwosu-Iheme Ph.D, JSC
His Eminence, Dr. Samuel Emeka Kanu Uche, JP (Prelate Emeritus, Methodist Church of Nigeria)
His Grace, The Most Rev. Henry Chukwudum Ndukuba (Primate, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion)
Posthumous:
H.E. Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu
H.E. Admiral Adekunle Lawal
H.E. Brig. Gen. Sunday Adenihun
H.E. Cmdre. Amadi Ikwechegh
H.E. Cmdre. Anthony Oguguo
H.E. Chief Evan Enwerem
H. E. Col. Tanko Zubairu
Hon. Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, JSC
Chief Emmanuel C. Iwuanyanwu, CFR
Hon. Justice Ignatius Chukwudi Pats Acholonu JSC, CON
C) Distinguished Star of Imo State
(DSI)
For sustained impact in economic development, infrastructure, trade and investment
Prof. Michael J. C. Echeruo
Chief Leo Stan Ekeh
Prof. Maurice Iwu
Ambassador Kema Chikwe
H.R.H. Eze Godwin Osuji
Mr. Ernest Ebi, MFR
Chief (Dr.) John Enyiogasi
Sir Mike Okiro, IGP (rtd.)
Rev. Fr. Prof. Emeka Emeakaroha
Dr. Walter Ofonagoro
Posthumous:
Senator Arthur Nzeribe
Dr. Benjamin Uzoukwu Nzeribe
Prof. George Obiozor
Dr. Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe (K.O. Mbadiwe)
Chief Sir John Richard Anyaehie
H.R.H. Eze Pius Agwaramgbo
Chief Collins Obih
Chief Pascal Dozie
Chief Willie Anumudu
Nze Dr. Clement Maduako, MFR
Chief Emma Osigwe Nwogu
H.R.H. Eze Zeb Philips Nwosu
D) Art & Culture Star of Imo State
(ACSI)
For outstanding contributions to the arts, culture, heritage and social cohesion of Imo State
His Grace, The Most Rev. Anthony Valentine Obinna (Archbishop Emeritus, Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri)
Sir Christogonus Ezebuiro Obinna (Sir Warrior)
Mr. Anayo Modestus Kanayo (Kanayo O. Kanayo)
Ms. Genevieve Nnaji
Ms. Rita Dominic-Anosike
Mr. Dan Satch Opara-Godwin (Kabaka)
Posthumous:
Flora Nwapa
E) Star of Innovation Award
(SIA)
For breakthrough ideas, projects and impact in technology, research, development or philanthropy
Dr. Sylvester Ugoh
Posthumous:
Dr. Ezekiel Izuogu
Dr. Basil Nnanna Ukaegbu
H.R.H. Eze Ben Obi
Mrs Maria Egu
F) Star of Youth Leadership
(SYL)
Chiamaka Nnadozie
