FAAN Director Obiageli Orah, Husband Honoured with Prestigious Chieftaincy Titles in Oba Kingdom

The Director of Special Duties at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Obiageli Orah, and her husband, Nze Alobueze C. Orah, have been conferred with highly revered chieftaincy titles in Oba Kingdom, Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to public service, community development and societal advancement.

Mrs Orah was installed as Chief Ugosimba and Lolo Nmaluluno of Oba Kingdom, while her husband was conferred with the title Ichie Okokpa I of Oba Kingdom.

The honours were bestowed during a colourful and elaborate traditional ceremony held on Tuesday, January 6, and Wednesday, January 7, 2026.

The conferment was performed by the traditional ruler of Oba Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Engr. Austin Emelobe (Igwe Eze Okpoko II), who described the titles as a recognition of integrity, exemplary leadership and sustained service to humanity.

The title Ugosimba, which translates to “An Eagle from Another Town”, reflects Mrs Orah’s status as an Oba woman by marriage rather than by birth, while symbolising strength, honour and excellence.

The title Nmaluluno, meaning beauty nurtured from a solid moral upbringing, is traditionally reserved for women of proven character, influence and positive societal impact.

Speaking at the ceremony, Igwe Eze Okpoko II, represented by Ichie Ifedinoba, Mr Samuel Onunkwo, praised Mrs Orah’s dedication to service and her strong moral values.

“She is a daughter whose integrity, compassion and commitment to societal advancement stand as a shining example for women in leadership,” the monarch said.

“The title of Lolo Ugosimba is reserved for women who embody strength, goodness and a deep sense of responsibility to their people. Mrs Orah has consistently demonstrated these qualities, and we are proud to honour her.”

According to the traditional institution, Mrs Orah was found worthy of the honour due to her distinguished public service career, notable contributions to national development and philanthropic support for communities within Anambra State and beyond.

In her acceptance speech, Mrs Orah expressed deep gratitude to the traditional rulers and people of Oba Kingdom, describing the honour as a renewed call to service.

“This honour is a call to greater service. I am profoundly grateful to Oba Kingdom for finding me worthy of this title. I remain committed to supporting the growth of our communities and promoting values that strengthen unity, development and progress,” she said.

She dedicated the titles to her family, colleagues at FAAN and mentors who have supported her professional journey over the years.

FAAN management also congratulated Mrs Orah, noting that the honour reflects the professionalism, dedication and integrity she brings to her role.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, the Director of Human Resources and Administration at FAAN, Dr Luqman Emiola Olatunbosun, described the recognition as well deserved.

“Mrs Orah’s recognition by her community speaks volumes about her character and exemplary leadership. We are proud to have her as part of FAAN’s management team,” he said.

The ceremony was attended by several senior FAAN officials, including Engr. Jensen Asaba, Director of Corporate Services, and Mrs Debola Agunbaide, Director of Commercial and Business Development, as well as traditional rulers, community leaders and other dignitaries.

A respected administrator with decades of experience in public service, Mrs Orah previously served as Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at FAAN and currently oversees critical stakeholder engagements, inter-agency collaboration and strategic community relations as Director of Special Duties.

She is also a strong advocate for women’s leadership and youth empowerment, having championed several community development initiatives across Anambra State.

The two-day celebration featured rich cultural displays, traditional rites and glowing tributes from community leaders, as friends, associates and well-wishers gathered in large numbers to celebrate her elevation as Chief Ugosimba – the “Mother Who Upholds Goodness and Progress.”