The ancient city of Aboh Kingdom in Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State was last week awash with colour and pageantry as His Imperial Majesty, Dr Greg Nnamdi Oputa III, the Obi of Aboh, marked his 60th birthday anniversary.
The landmark celebration drew an impressive gathering of dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme; traditional rulers from across the state; political leaders; and guests from within and outside Nigeria, all of whom came to celebrate the monarch and offer thanksgiving for his life and reign.
Sir Monday Onyeme, who served as Special Guest of Honour, commended the people of Aboh Kingdom for their continued loyalty and support for the Obi, urging them to sustain the prevailing atmosphere of peace in the interest of rapid development.
According to the Deputy Governor, the restoration of peace in the kingdom has already laid a solid foundation for accelerated growth and sustainable development. He praised the Obi’s leadership style, noting that in just one year on the throne, the monarch has successfully reunited his people and fostered harmonious coexistence.
Speaking at the event, which also marked the first anniversary of the Obi’s reign, Onyeme stressed that peace remains the most critical driver of development.
“Without peace, sustainable progress is impossible,” he said. “Some months ago, when I visited Aboh, we emphasised that once peace is achieved in a kingdom, development becomes faster and more enduring. Today, I can confidently say that there is peace in Aboh Kingdom, and I am convinced that this kingdom will exceed expectations in the years ahead.”
Describing the Obi as a leader blessed with youthfulness, strength, wisdom and experience, Onyeme said the monarch had already commenced a healing and reconciliation process within the kingdom.
“He is bringing his wealth of experience to bear in the administration of the kingdom. I am confident that new investments and opportunities will soon emerge for the benefit of the people,” he added.
The Deputy Governor congratulated the monarch on the milestone birthday and prayed for divine guidance, protection and strength throughout his reign.
“I wish Your Imperial Majesty a happy 60th birthday. May God Almighty protect you, guide you and grant you the wisdom and energy to continue to rule your kingdom successfully,” he said.
Highlights of the well-attended celebration included the cutting of the birthday cake and the presentation of the Obi’s biography, The Crown and the Call. The book is intended to inspire future generations to view leadership not merely as power, but as a divine calling rooted in service, integrity and legacy.
In his address, the Obi of Aboh expressed profound gratitude to God for guiding his journey, stating that words were insufficient to capture his appreciation to Jesus Christ for his life and calling.
He thanked God for preserving him in good health for 60 years and urged his subjects and guests to embrace Christ, describing faith as the true measure of lasting fulfilment.
“Many people define blessings by material possessions, but my greatest blessing is within,” he said. “You can take everything away from me, but you cannot take Jesus.”
The monarch emphasised that his ascension to the throne was by divine will, assuring guests that Aboh Kingdom would witness remarkable transformation in the coming years under a reign anchored on peace, faith and purposeful leadership.
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