Emmanuel Clement.
LAGOS – It was a remarkable gathering of royalty, political leaders, business executives, religious leaders and community stakeholders as they converged to celebrate one of Nigeria’s most respected businessmen and cultural ambassadors, Onyendu Ndigbo of Ejigbo,Eze Ambassador Dr Alex Sunday Mpidike (ASM) Nwoye, who marked his 70th birthday in grand style.
The colourful celebration was more than a birthday party; it was a celebration of an extraordinary life dedicated to entrepreneurship, cultural preservation, peaceful coexistence and community development.
Speaker after speaker described the renowned hospitality entrepreneur as a symbol of humility, generosity and unity whose influence has transcended ethnic, religious and political boundaries.
Royal fathers, eminent personalities and associates who graced the occasion unanimously agreed that Eze Ambassador Nwoye’s seven decades of life have been defined by selfless service, visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to building bridges among diverse communities.
Among the distinguished guests were the Obi of Uga, HRM Igwe Chidi Ezenwugo, represented by Chief Ebekue Dike N’A Uga; HRM Oba Wasiu Oyedele Saka, the Olokolonigi II and Elero of Ilero Kingdom in Oyo State; Onyendu Gburugburu Okpotemba; Hon. Okey Joe Onuakalusi; and the Chairman of the occasion, Chief Goddy Umugoji (Chidera N’A Uga).
The event also attracted presidents-general of Igbo communities, the Board of Trustees Chairman of the Igbo-speaking Community, captains of industry, political leaders, clerics, representatives of the Yoruba community, traditional rulers, village and town unions, as well as friends and well-wishers from different parts of Nigeria.
For many guests, the celebration reflected the enormous goodwill Eze Nwoye has earned over the years through his exemplary leadership, philanthropy and dedication to promoting harmony among Nigerians.
The most emotional moments of the celebration came as the celebrant’s children took turns to pay glowing tributes to their father, describing him as their greatest mentor, teacher and source of inspiration.
His son, Mr. Chukwuma Alex Nwoye, described the celebrant as an exceptional father whose wisdom, sacrifices and unwavering support have laid a solid foundation for the family’s success.
“Happy 70th birthday, Dad. The values you have taught us continue to shape our lives every day.
My wife, our child and I celebrate you with gratitude and look forward to making many more beautiful memories together.”
Another daughter, Mrs. Chinyere Doris Ikhatua, described her father’s 70th birthday as a significant milestone that reflects a life filled with purpose, resilience and remarkable accomplishments.
She prayed that God would continue to bless him with good health, happiness and many more fruitful years while affectionately wishing a happy birthday to the “one and only Ochiriozuo of Uga.”
The celebration also provided an opportunity to reflect on Chief Nwoye’s remarkable contributions to business and nation-building.
Widely respected as one of the pioneers of indigenous manufacturing and hospitality entrepreneurship, Chief Nwoye founded Aceland Industries Limited, producers of Aceland and Nigerbest Paints and Allied Products, before expanding into retail and hospitality with Rock 90 Supermarket, Mecvila Gardens, Rockland Garden, and Aceland Royal Garden and Events Centre, establishments that have become prominent names in Lagos.
Beyond his business achievements, Investigator news reports that the celebrant has earned enormous respect as a cultural ambassador and advocate of peaceful coexistence.
He holds several prestigious traditional titles, including the Ochiriozuo of Uga Kingdom in Anambra State, Bobaselu of Ejigboland in Lagos State, Onyendu Ndigbo n’Ejigbo, and Omereoha of Ndigbo Lagos.
Many speakers noted that Chief Nwoye has become a rallying point for Ndigbo in Lagos while maintaining cordial relationships with traditional institutions and communities across ethnic divides.
Speaking at the event, HRM Oba Wasiu Oyedele Saka described the celebrant as a man whose life exemplifies wisdom, peace and service to humanity.
“The timeless injunction that we should number our days and apply our hearts unto wisdom remains relevant.
The Bobaselu of Ejigboland in Lagos State,Alex Nwoye has lived a life worthy of emulation. I pray that God grants him many more years in good health, peace and prosperity,” the monarch said.
The immediate past Executive Chairman of Ejigbo Local Council Development Area and APC standard bearer for Oshodi/Isolo Federal Constituency II, Hon. Monsurudeen Oloyede Bello (OBE), said attaining the age of 70 in sound health is a rare privilege deserving of celebration.
According to him, Chief Nwoye has distinguished himself as a patriotic Nigerian, a community builder and an accomplished entrepreneur whose contributions have impacted countless lives.
“He deserves every honour being accorded to him today because he has invested his life in building people, strengthening communities and contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic development,” Bello stated.
Also speaking, the immediate past President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Lagos State, High Chief Solomon Ogbonna Aguene, described the celebrant as one of the most peaceful personalities within the Igbo socio-cultural space.
“If there is anyone who truly reflects peace, it is Onyendu Alex Nwoye.
Like water, he has no enemy. He relates freely with everyone without discrimination.
His life teaches us that humility and kindness remain the greatest qualities of true leadership,” he said.
Similarly, the Ezendigbo of Ajao Estate, Igwe Fred Nkemdilim Nwajagu, described Chief Nwoye as a dependable brother and respected leader whose passion for human development continues to inspire many.
His first son, Mr. Uchenna Nwoye, praised his father as a visionary leader whose generosity, integrity and exemplary lifestyle have earned him admiration from everyone who has crossed his path.
Family friend, John Ejiofor Ngene, described the celebrant as a father figure to Ndigbo in Ejigbo and its environs, noting that his immense contributions to culture, hospitality and community development have made him one of the most respected personalities in Lagos.
As music, cultural performances and goodwill messages filled the atmosphere, guests agreed that the celebration represented far more than a birthday.
It was a fitting tribute to a man whose life’s work has been devoted to building businesses, empowering people, preserving culture and fostering unity.
For many in attendance,the Bobaselu of Ejigboland in Lagos State,Eze Ambassador Dr Alex Sunday Mpidike (ASM) Nwoye’s 70th birthday was a celebration of an enduring legacy—one built on integrity, enterprise, humility, peace and an unwavering commitment to humanity.
