By By Elsie Udoh
Award-winning writer, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has become the first woman to be conferred with a chieftaincy title in her hometown, Abba in Anambra State.
Adichie was named “Odeluwa” (the one who writes for the world) at the welcome ceremony of the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, to Abba which was held last Friday.
The writer, who is popular for her work, “Half of a Yellow Sun” which was termed as “best-of-the-best” for its depiction of the Nigeria-Biafra civil war, expressed double joy as she mentioned that her father was also honoured in Abba as “Odelora” (the one who writes for the community).
Taking to her Instagram page on Wednesday, she penned a heart-warming message where she expressed gratitude for the recognition.
She wrote, “I am so grateful to my people of Abba in Anambra State for their warmth and love, for their enthusiastic support. And to Igwe L.N. Ezeh, who has always valued education, for giving me the title of “Odeluwa” – ‘the one who writes for the world.’ My father received the title of “Odelora” – “the one who writes for the community” and the symbolism means very much to me.
“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, Culture does not make people, people make culture. Cultures thrive when they best serve and reflect the people. Ours must become a culture that celebrates achievement, whether it comes from a man or a woman.
“It was a day filled with joyful moments but the highlight for me was the sight of many children on the dusty road laughing and waving and shouting “Odeluwa”. Amongst them, I hope, were little girls with hearts full of dreams who feel encouraged to keep trying to keep going.”
