IGBO DAY 2025: Chief Maurice Vunobolki, Honoured as Ebubedike Ndi Igbo I of Adamawa State

 

Yola, Adamawa State - October 27, 2025

In recognition of his exceptional leadership, philanthropy, and unwavering service to humanity, Chief Maurice Vunobolki, PhD, Dyapa Bwatiye has been conferred with the prestigious chieftaincy title of Ebubedike Ndi Igbo I of Adamawa State by the Igbo Cultural Association (ICA) Council of Elders. The honour was bestowed upon him by His Highness, Igwe Godwin Ikemefuna Omenaka – Igwe Odomudo, Eze Ndi Igbo III of Adamawa State, as part of the 2025 Igbo Day Celebration and New Yam Festival held in Yola.

The title Ebubedike Ndi Igbo, is a symbol of courage and excellence that holds deep historical and cultural significance among the Igbo people. Literally translated as “the glory and strength of the Igbo nation,” it is a revered honorific title reserved for individuals whose courage, achievements, and service uplift their people and community. Throughout Igbo history, the title has symbolized bravery, resilience, and the undying spirit of unity that defines the Igbo identity. To be named Ebubedike Ndi Igbo is to be recognized not only as a leader but also as a defender of cultural pride and communal progress.

The conferment ceremony was the high point of the festival, as the Executive Governor of Adamawa State His Excellency Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, represented by his Deputy Her Excellency Prof. Kaletapwa Farauta, Igwe Godwin Omenaka, political dignitaries, and community leaders gathered to witness the moment Chief Vunobolki was decorated with the traditional symbols of office.

His investiture as Ebubedike Ndi Igbo I is a recognition of his compassion, philanthropy, and humanitarian support to people of all ethnic nationalities across Adamawa State and beyond. His tireless commitment to community development, educational advancement, and youth empowerment has earned him widespread respect among both the Igbo community and the larger society.

Speaking after the conferment, Igwe Godwin I. Omenaka praised Chief Vunobolki’s inclusive spirit and dedication to peacebuilding, noting that his contributions exemplify the values of unity and mutual respect that the Igbo people uphold wherever they reside.

With this conferment, Chief Maurice Vunobolki now becomes a member of the Igwe-in-Council, joining a distinguished circle of titled Chiefs such as Chief Stephen Maduwa, Omeudo Ndi Igbo I of Adamawa State, responsible for advising the Eze Ndigbo and promoting the welfare of the Igbo community in Adamawa State.

In his acceptance speech, Chief Vunobolki expressed deep gratitude for the honour, saying it is a life-time honour, having been a friend and family to the Igbo community across Nigeria for decades. He pledged to continue his work in promoting harmony, cultural preservation, and socio-economic growth across communities – “This title is a call to serve even more. I dedicate it to all people who believe in the power of unity, compassion, and progress.”

As Ebubedike Ndigbo I of Adamawa State, Vunobolki stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring spirit of the Igbo people — a leader whose life bridges cultures, uplifts communities, and reaffirms that the true strength of a people lies in their shared humanity.

Chief Maurice Vonubolki was honoured alongside Rt. Hon. Baltiya Wesley, the Speaker, Adamawa State House of Assembly as Okwuruora Ndi Igbo, Adamawa State.

This year’s Igbo Day celebration brought together the Executive Governor of Adamawa State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, leaders and indigenes of Adamawa state, Igbo sons and daughters from across Adamawa and beyond, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo nation through music, dance, masquerades, and traditional cuisine.

By Mazi Uchenna Nwafor 

Hicia News