05/06/2026
Building Bridges By Promoting Igbo Identity And Cultural Heritage
The title Ezeudo was given to me at the University of Uyo by the late Nze Sunny Ogbu, my predecessor as Eze Ndigbo, during our undergraduate days. The name has stayed with me ever since. My late parents, Nkaonadi and Iruezigbo, called me by that name, and everyone in my family still does. In fact, many people do not even know my real name.
Over the years, I have tried to live up to the meaning and essence of that name. As I grew older and began taking Nze, Chieftaincy, and Ozonkpu titles, I retained Ezeudo rather than trying to build a new identity or brand around another name.
I have always been deeply fascinated by Igbo culture. Long ago, I realized that our culture faced the serious risk of gradual extinction if deliberate efforts were not made to preserve and promote it. Since then, contributing to the promotion of Igbo culture has become a lifelong passion and obsession for me.
Through my online platforms, personal interactions, public engagements, and private conversations, I have consistently promoted our cultural identity — our language, food, attire, traditions, and values. All my children bear Igbo names. I have successfully relegated my baptismal name, Michael, to the background.
Over the years, I have delivered lectures and talks on different aspects of Igbo culture and have written countless essays on the subject. One memorable experience was my invitation to Oxford University to speak on Igbo titles. On that occasion, I proudly wore a white Peteli outfit on the London Underground as I travelled to and from Oxford, attracting admiration and curiosity from onlookers.
For those who are not proud of their Igbo identity, I dare say you may not fully appreciate the richness of what you possess.
I strive every day to live up to my appellation as an Igbo Cultural Ambassador.
This week, I was invited to speak on the cultural significance of palm wine at a high-level event (Cultural and Diplomatic Night) hosted by the Nigeria Customs Service at their Headquarters in Abuja, and I was handsomely rewarded for it. The gathering featured distinguished dignitaries, diplomats, government officials, and high-ranking security chiefs. Once again, it became another grand opportunity to showcase and celebrate Igbo culture.
My Peteli regalia was impeccable, complete with the Atali Ozo proudly displayed. My Abuba Ugo beautifully complemented my red cap. For dramatic effect, I carried my Akpa Nervi sling bag, from which I “magically” produced an Iko Mmanya (calabash cup).
The atmosphere was warm and convivial. Friendships were formed, while valuable professional and business connections were established.
In the photograph taken at the event, from left to right, are the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu; yours truly, Ozonkpu Chief Uche Nworah, Ph.D (Ezeudo Enugwu-Ukwu na Umunri); Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service; and Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, Chief of the Air Staff.
Let’s continue building bridges by being proud, and promoting our Igbo identity and cultural heritage.
Igbo Amaka!
Ozonkpu Chief Uche Nworah, Ph.D
(Ezeudo Enugwu-Ukwu na Umunri)
