Uzodimma Receives Anambra Traditional Rulers Council Chairman, Pledges Stronger Imo-Anambra Partnership
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
By Grace Chidimma Ibe
OWERRI, Imo State, Nigeria — Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has received the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, His Royal Majesty Igwe Dr. Chidubem Iweka III, Ogalagidi of Obosi Kingdom, during a courtesy visit in Owerri.
The meeting, according to the governor, provided an opportunity for both leaders to discuss areas of mutual interest and explore ways of strengthening the relationship between Imo and Anambra states.
Governor Uzodimma disclosed the visit in a statement, describing Imo and Anambra as brother states united by shared history, cultural heritage, values and common aspirations.
He said his administration would continue to promote cooperation with neighbouring states in the interest of the people and the wider Southeast region.
The governor said, “We will continue to work harmoniously and strengthen our partnership in the best interest of our people, our region, and the nation at large.”
The visit is significant against the backdrop of the longstanding social, cultural, economic and historical ties between Imo and Anambra. The two states share boundaries and have extensive links through commerce, migration, traditional institutions, religious activities and family relationships.
Traditional rulers continue to play an important role in community leadership across both states, particularly in areas involving cultural preservation, peace-building, community development and engagement with government authorities.
Igwe Dr. Chidubem Iweka III is the traditional ruler of Obosi Kingdom in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State and the current Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council (ASTRC).
Recent official records from the Anambra State Government identify him as the chairman of the council and show him actively coordinating the affairs of traditional rulers in the state.
In May 2026, he inaugurated committees of the council, including a Review of Law Committee and a Seminar Planning Committee, and charged members to contribute their experience toward strengthening the traditional institution
The monarch has also been involved in initiatives aimed at strengthening collaboration between traditional institutions and security agencies.
In July, he pledged closer cooperation between traditional rulers and the Zone 13 Police Command in efforts to combat crime and improve security.
As the traditional ruler of Obosi, Igwe Iweka has also championed cultural preservation. In July 2026, he announced plans for the revival of the Ite Umatu Eze Obosi Festival, alongside preparations for the Obiora Obosi and Ito-Ogbo Obosi festivals.
The Anambra State Government also reported in May that the monarch received an Honorary Doctorate Degree of Divinity from Bethany Bible Seminary, United States, in recognition of his leadership and community impact.
His engagement with Governor Uzodimma therefore comes at a time when traditional institutions in the Southeast continue to seek greater collaboration with government and other stakeholders on peace, development, culture and regional integration.
For Imo and Anambra, the relationship extends beyond their geographical proximity. The states are connected by the broader Igbo cultural identity and by significant movements of people and businesses across their borders.
The meeting between Governor Uzodimma and the Anambra traditional rulers council chairman consequently underscores the importance of inter-state cooperation in addressing common challenges and advancing development across the Southeast.
Governor Uzodimma reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining cordial relations with Anambra State and other neighbouring states, stressing that stronger partnerships would ultimately serve the interests of the people and contribute to regional development.
