Chairman of the Central Planning Committee of the Second Coronation Anniversary Hails Successful Celebration, Predicts Brighter Future for Arochukwu

The Chairman of the Central Planning Committee of the 2nd coronation anniversary of His Eminence, Eze Dr Eberechukwu Oji, Eze Aro IX, Mazi Barrister Kingsley Uba Okoro, has expressed satisfaction over the successful completion of the anniversary activities, describing the event as a remarkable celebration of unity, progress and visionary leadership.

Speaking shortly after the grand finale of the anniversary celebration, Mazi Okoro said he was highly fulfilled by the outcome of the events, noting that only the thanksgiving service remains to conclude the programme officially.

According to him, the success of the celebration was evident in the large turnout of guests and the favourable weather throughout the event.

“You could see how God does His work. The programme came to a colourful end and was not disrupted by rain. We had sunshine throughout today, and we have every reason to thank God,” he said.

He commended the people of Arochukwu for their peaceful conduct and praised Governor Alex Otti, through his representative, Dr Kanu Ohuche, for acknowledging the developmental strides recorded under the reign of Eze Aro.

Okoro highlighted several achievements of the monarch, including the establishment of the Mary Slessor Library, road expansion projects, electricity initiatives and other community development programmes.

“His Eminence has done quite a lot for Arochukwu. He started the light-up Aro project before others came in and has continued to champion initiatives that are transforming the kingdom. I believe he deserves to be celebrated,” he stated.

Looking ahead, the council chairman expressed confidence that Arochukwu would witness unprecedented transformation within the next five years.

He revealed that the traditional ruler is pursuing strategic investments, including plans to harness the kingdom’s abundant limestone deposits through partnerships with investors.

He also emphasised the monarch’s vision of developing Arochukwu’s tourism potential by promoting attractions such as the historic 79 Steps and Ibom Water Falls.

“Tourism is one of the greatest sources of internally generated revenue across the world. With the governor’s support and the plans already in place, anyone who returns to Arochukwu in the next five years will hardly recognise the community because of the pace of development,” he said.

Okoro further appealed to Aro sons and daughters across the world to embrace the Igbo philosophy of ‘Aku Ruo Ulo’, stressing that the kingdom’s development requires the support and commitment of all.

He noted that improved security and growing investments by indigenes, particularly in hospitality and real estate, are clear indications of confidence in the future of Arochukwu.

“Many people in the diaspora are returning home to build and invest because they believe in the future of Arochukwu. Security has improved, businesses are growing, and hotels are flourishing. These are signs that the kingdom is on the right path,” he added.

When asked whether he would be willing to serve again if called upon, Okoro affirmed his readiness, describing leadership as a lifelong commitment.

He cited his numerous leadership roles in Arochukwu community associations both at home and in Lagos, saying he has always regarded service to the people as a duty.

He urged the people of Arochukwu to remain steadfast in supporting the traditional institution rather than becoming discouraged by temporary challenges.

“This is not the time to complain. We still have a long journey ahead. We should continue to support the kingdom and His Eminence so that together we can build an Arochukwu that every son and daughter will be proud of,” he said.

The chairman thanked the people of Arochukwu and all those who contributed to the success of the second coronation anniversary, expressing optimism that greater achievements lie ahead for the kingdom.