Ata Igala confers Olimene title on businessman Enemona

Politics Spice Special Features Education Sex & Relationship Interview Columns Opinion Advertise with us Ata Igala confers Olimene title on businessman Enemona News October 28, 2026 12:03 am Chief (Dr) Joseph Onuche Enemona after he was conferred with the title of Olimene Ata Igala by the Ata Igala, His Royal Majesty, Opaluwa Akpa. Photo: Ata Igala Palace

The Ata Igala, Opaluwa Akpa, has conferred the title of Olimene Ata Igala on businessman and economist, Dr Joseph Enemona, formally admitting him into the traditional institution of the Igala Kingdom.

Enemona received the title at the Ata Igala’s Palace in Idah, Kogi State, on Thursday, October 22, in a ceremony that he said marked a new chapter in his relationship with the traditional institution, according to a statement seen by The PUNCH on Tuesday.

Speaking after the conferment, Enemona said the honour came with a responsibility to contribute to the development of the Igala Kingdom, describing his elevation from an outsider to a protégé of the Ata Igala as a privilege that would deepen his commitment to the kingdom.

He thanked the monarch for considering him worthy of the title, which he described as an honour beyond words.

Enemona said the conferment had changed his status within the kingdom, describing the transition as one from an “iconoclast” to a protégé of the Ata Igala.

The coronation was followed by the inauguration of Enemona’s new country home in Ogugu, Olamaboro Local Government Area, turning the occasion into a double celebration for the economist and his community.

The reception attracted figures from politics, traditional institutions, business, entertainment and community organisations, including Afrobeats singer David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, and members of his team.

Former Kogi State Deputy Governor Edward Onoja also attended the event, alongside representatives of the Ata Igala.

Other guests included former President of the National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria, John Obeh; the current president of the association, Luke Ogbu, who was represented by the organisation’s Public Relations Officer, Ndubuisi Ahiri; and Igala musician Umaja.

Chief Executive Officer of the Ojoma Heart of Gold Humanitarian Foundation, Ojoma Lawson, and Iyeoja Ochogwu were also among the guests.

The gathering at Ogugu combined the traditional significance of Enemona’s elevation with the opening of his country home, drawing guests from outside Kogi as well as members of the Igala community.

Enemona expressed appreciation to the monarch, his guests and others who contributed to the ceremony, while praying for continued celebrations in their households and safe journeys for those who travelled to attend the event.

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