The leadership of the Igbo Global Icon Awards and Foundation has appointed the traditional head of Obuoffia and traditional ruler of Omuoha Autonomous Community, His Royal Majesty, Eze Barr. Igwesi O. Igwesi, as its Grand Patron.
The appointment was formally conveyed during a visit by the organisers to the monarch in Enugu on June 22, 2026.
Speaking on behalf of the Igbo Global Icon Awards and Foundation, the founder, Nnabueze Louis Kanife, said the decision was informed by the monarch’s leadership qualities, contributions to human development and commitment to societal progress.
Explaining the vision behind the initiative, Kanife said the awards were established to celebrate excellence and inspire greater service among Igbo sons and daughters across the world.
“The Igbos have this trite proverb which speaks to the fact that appreciating one who has done well is an indirect call on the person to do more.
“At the Igbo Global Icon Awards, our task is simple but carefully done. We celebrate individuals who have distinguished themselves in Igbo land, all other parts of Nigeria and throughout the world,” he said.
Kanife said the organisers considered Eze Igwesi’s record of service and leadership before selecting him for the honorary position.
“Today, we are here to perform a simple but quite significant task. We are here to confer on you the position of Grand Patron of the Igbo Global Icon Award.
“Your disposition to issues in the society, the quality of leadership you offer your people and your contribution to human development influenced your choice. As a body committed to celebrating outstanding sons and daughters of Igbo land, our grand patron will expectedly be outstanding,” he stated.
The organisers noted that while the 2025 edition of the award was held in Enugu, the 2027 edition is scheduled to take place in July in Atlanta, United States of America.
Responding, Eze Igwesi who is also the Chairman of Nkanu West Traditional Rulers Council and a member of the Imeobi of Ohaneze Ndiigbo, expressed appreciation to the organisers for the recognition, describing it as a call to greater service.
“I thank the organisers of the Global Igbo Icon Award for this momentous recognition. It goes to show that one’s service to God and humanity does not go unnoticed. This honour will embolden me to continue on the path of service, dedication and duty,” he said.
The monarch commended the initiative for promoting excellence and celebrating outstanding achievements among Igbos at home and in the diaspora.
“This initiative of yours is a light that should not go off. The Igbo tribe has been reckoned for resilience in the face of adversity and industry wherever they find themselves. Your decision to celebrate those who have distinguished themselves is in order,” he added.
Eze Igwesi also encouraged the organisers to extend recognition to outstanding Igbo political office holders who have distinguished themselves in public service.
He cited the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, as an example of leadership deserving commendation and urged political leaders across the South-East to emulate what he described as the governor’s development-oriented approach to governance.
The traditional ruler further assured the organisers of his support in his new capacity as Grand Patron of the Igbo Global Icon Awards and Foundation.
