The ancient Owa Kingdom is set for a grand, week-long celebration in honour of His Royal Majesty (HRM), Emmanuel Efeizomor II, as the revered monarch clocks 88 years.
Briefing the press on Tuesday March 3, 2026, at the Palace via an official press statement issued and signed by the Chairman Ceremonial Planning Committee, Chief Engr. Okwuokenye Nkenchor, the kingdom announced a carefully curated programme of events to celebrate the life, legacy and enduring leadership of the octogenarian royal father.
Engr. Nkenchor, who is the Inneh of Owa Kingdom and doubles as the Personal Assistant to the Obi of Owa kingdom was flanked by Prince Victor Efeizomor, Senior Special Assistant to the State Governor on Media and Prince Jegbefume Frank.
According to the statement, the activities will span four days and reflect the unity, culture and progress of Owa Kingdom.
Unity Football Tournament Kicks Off Celebration
The celebration will commence on
Tuesday, March 10, 2026, with the grand finale of the “Obi Owa Unity Football Tournament Cup,” a novelty football competition involving the eight communities that make up Owa Kingdom.
The final match is scheduled to be held at 4:00pm at the football field of the University of Delta, Owa-Alero Campus.
“This tournament has been ongoing for four weeks and has brought together our youths across the eight communities in the true spirit of unity and healthy competition,” the statement noted.
“It is a symbolic reflection of the harmony and oneness that define Owa Kingdom under the reign of our revered monarch”, adding that the event will also feature the presentation of prizes and cash gifts to deserving participants and outstanding performers.
The day will also feature the presentation of Royal Awards to selected sons of the kingdom, while deserving individuals will be conferred with chieftaincy titles by the Obi of Owa.
Award Day to Recognise Excellence and Service
Thursday, March 12, 2026, has been designated as Award Day and the Main Day of the celebration.
On this day, distinguished sons and daughters of Owa Kingdom will be honoured for their socio-economic and cultural contributions to the development of the kingdom.
The monarch, HRM Dr. E.O. Efeizomor II, JP, OON, will personally present the awards.
“The award ceremony is a moment to celebrate excellence, commitment and selfless service to Owa Kingdom,” the committee stated.
“It is our way of recognising those who have contributed meaningfully to the growth and development of our land.”
The event will also feature the ceremonial cutting of the birthday cake in honour of the monarch.
Owa Cultural Day Showcases Rich Heritage
Friday, March 13, 2026, has been set aside as Owa Cultural Day. Various cultural groups from within and outside the kingdom will perform to showcase the rich heritage and traditions of the Owa people.
On the same day, sons and daughters of Owa Kingdom, alongside friends and well-wishers, will pay traditional homage to the Obi of Owa.
“Cultural Day will be a vibrant display of our customs, music and dance,” the statement read.
“It is an opportunity to celebrate our identity and pass on our cherished traditions to future generations.”
Grand Finale: Praise and Thanksgiving Service
The celebration will culminate on Saturday, March 14, 2026, with a grand Praise and Thanksgiving Service at the Owa Royal Palace ground.
The event is expected to attract dignitaries from within and outside Delta State, including royal fathers, political leaders, family members, friends and admirers of the monarch.
“This is not just a birthday celebration,” the committee emphasised.
“It is a celebration of 66 years of purposeful and peaceful reign, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of Owa Kingdom.”
Describing the monarch as “an octogenarian king whose life has been dedicated to service and cultural preservation,” the committee highlighted that the 88th birthday anniversary is a testament to divine grace and enduring leadership.
Call for Massive Participation
The Ceremonial Planning Committee called on well-wishers and members of the public to turn out in large numbers to celebrate the revered monarch.
“We hereby call on all sons and daughters of Owa Kingdom, friends and associates to come out en masse to celebrate our royal father,” the statement urged.
“This historic occasion marks the 88th birthday anniversary of our king and 66 years of distinguished reign on the throne of Owa Kingdom.”
The event is expected to attract the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, his Deputy, Monday Onyeme, and the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor, alongside a distinguished array of other eminent personalities and dignitaries.
As Owa Kingdom prepares for the historic celebration, the mood across the communities is one of pride, gratitude and anticipation, as the people honour a monarch whose reign has spanned generations and shaped the destiny of the kingdom.
