Popular award winning writer, Chimamanda Adichie, has revealed she is the first woman in her hometown to be conferred a chieftaincy title.
Wakadaily report that the writer was on Friday conferred with the chieftaincy title of ‘Odeluwa’ (Writer for the world) by the traditional ruler of her community, Abba in Njikoka local government area of Anambra State, Igwe Leonard Nwankwo Eze.
Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, and governor of Anambra State, Charles Soludo, amongst other dignitaries was present at the ceremony.
In her appreciation post on Wednesday Chimamanda Adichie, also urged custodians of culture to ensure both genders are equally celebrated.
she wrote in an Instagram post, “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 their hearts full of dreams who feel encouraged to keep trying, to keep going.”
