The President/CEO, Funab Group of Companies Ltd and Dan Amanan of Fune Emirate of Yobe State, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia, Ph.D., is set to be conferred with a prestigious traditional title by His Royal Highness, Eze J. Osoka Agwu (PHF, DOB), the Aba-Ukwu of Amaba-Ukwu Item, in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State.
The royal honour, which bestows on Ajia the revered title of Nwanne Ukwu Di Na Mba of Amaba-Ukwu Item, (Our Son in another Land) will be formally performed during the 80th birthday celebration of Eze J. Osoka Agwu, scheduled for Saturday, December 27, 2025, at the monarch’s palace in Amaba-Ukwu Item.
In an official letter dated April 30, 2025, personally signed by the traditional ruler, Eze Osoka Agwu disclosed that the decision followed wide consultations with members of the Amaba-Ukwu Eze-in-Council.
The monarch described Alhaji Ajia as one of the distinguished individuals who had supported him “in no small measure” over the years, particularly throughout his more than two decades on the throne as the Aba-Ukwu of Amaba-Ukwu Item.
According to the royal father, the chieftaincy title is in recognition of Ajia’s goodwill, commitment to community development, and consistent support for traditional institutions. A committee has already been constituted to work out modalities for the installation ceremony.
As part of the celebrations, HRH Eze J. Osoka Agwu has formally extended a special invitation to traditional rulers, dignitaries, community leaders, and the general public to attend both his 80th birthday celebration and the coronation of Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia as _Nwanne Ukwu Di Na Mba_ of Amaba-Ukwu Item.
The ceremony which will be taken place at the Eze’s Palace, _Amabu-Ukwu, Amaba-Ukwu Item,_ Abia State, beginning at 12:00 noon.
The grand event will feature notable personalities serving in key roles. The Chairman of the occasion is Chief Okey Ogele (One Nwa Ife of Amaba-Ukwu Item), while the Co-Chairman is Chief Dr. Joachim Ezeako (JP) (Ogbuefi Nwa Aba of Amaba-Ukwu Item).
The Royal Father of the Day is the HRM, Traditional Ruler of Okoko Eze of Amaba-Ukwu Item, while the Chief Hosts include Chief Dr. Godswill O. Okoji, Chief Engr. Dr. Abayi Eke (Traditional Prime Minister), Chief Chidiebere Nnanna, Chief Arch. Ken Ekeke, and Chief Sir Goodluck Uche.
The conferment further underscores Alhaji Ajia’s growing national stature and deep-rooted ties across Nigeria’s traditional institutions.
In July 2025, he was also honoured with the title of Dan Amanan Fune Emirate of Yobe State, conferred by the Emir of Fune, in recognition of his service, leadership, and contributions to societal development.
Observers describe the dual honours—spanning both the South-East and North-East geopolitical zones—as a testament to Ajia’s bridge-building role, national outlook, and commitment to unity, cultural heritage, and public service.
The forthcoming installation ceremony is expected to attract a wide array of traditional rulers, political leaders, scholars, and well-wishers from across the country, forming part of the landmark celebrations marking the 80th birthday of Eze J. Osoka Agwu, a respected member of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers.
