Internationally renowned Nigerian writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie added another honor to her illustrious career on December 30th, 2022. She was bestowed the chieftaincy title of Odeluwa, becoming the first woman chief in her ancestral hometown of Abba, Anambra State.
The conferral ceremony coincided with the 45th coronation anniversary of the traditional ruler of Abba, Igwe Leonard Nwankwo Eze. Numerous prominent figures attended to recognize Adichie’s barrier-breaking achievement.
“Writer For The World”
Odeluwa translates to “writer for the world” in Igbo, a nod to Adichie’s global fame. In a heartfelt speech, the author dedicated the honor to her late parents while pledging continued commitment to her community.
She expressed hope that her chieftaincy title will inspire more women to assume leadership roles in the future. “I am the first woman in my hometown to be made a chief, and it makes me happy to know that more women will follow,” Adichie stated.
Trailblazer For Women’s Advancement
Governor Chukwuma Soludo commended Abba for elevating an accomplished daughter of their land. He emphasized that any society failing to recognize women’s worth hinders its own progress.
As an icon of African literature shattering gender boundaries, Adichie epitomizes that very truth. The newly minted chief has won widespread praise for promoting feminist causes in Nigeria and abroad through her writing and advocacy.
With 16 honorary doctorates and a mantle of global accolades, official leadership status in her ancestral Abba signifies uplifting change. Adichie forging a path for other women to follow suits her mindset and life’s work.
