ADAZI-ANI, ANAMBRA STATE — On Saturday, August 22, 2026, the Adazi-Ani Ancient Kingdom in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State stood still in grand celebration. A distinguished son and scion of the soil, Dr. Chinedu Benson Madubuko, OFR, was formally crowned Eze Chinechendo I.
This historic royal transition marks the elevation of a man who had already established an impregnable reputation in business, philanthropy, and community service into the highest traditional leadership position of his people.
ABT News (www.abtnews.net) takes a look at the illustrious journey of the new monarch, whose wealth, influence, and throne were born not of politics, but of decades of dedication to private enterprise, public good and community service.
From Humble Beginnings to a Manufacturing Titan
Born in 1963 and proudly hailing from the Ikenga community in Adazi-Ani, HRM Dr. Madubuko’s ascent to greatness was paved by sheer hard work and vision. After his early education in Adazi-Ani and Port Harcourt, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Management Science from the Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST).
Starting out humbly as a local trader, he steadily climbed the entrepreneurial ladder to become the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of De Chico Investment Limited (De Chico Group). Today, De Chico Group stands as a pioneering indigenous business enterprise with major interests in the manufacturing and distribution of building materials—most notably aluminium profiles, stone-coated roofing sheets, and ceiling cladding.
The Unanimous Choice for the Throne
His emergence as the paramount ruler was a seamless transition, championed by extensive appeals from prominent sons, leaders, and members of the community who repeatedly asked him to accept the sacred responsibility.
His unanimous selection as the popular choice of the people was swiftly validated with a stamp of authority by the Anambra State Government, under the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo. During his coronation and first Ofala festival, dignitaries, industry captains, and guests from across the country converged to honour a man who had already spent his life building up his community.
A Legacy of Philanthropy and Infrastructure
Long before he ascended the throne of his ancestors, HRM Dr. Madubuko was already a king in the hearts of his people. Through his Zeph Care Foundation, established in 2017, he has consistently empowered unemployed youths, widows, indigent students, and vulnerable demographics. The foundation has disbursed hundreds of millions of Naira in direct financial assistance and grants across both Port Harcourt and Adazi-Ani.
Perhaps his most stunning philanthropic achievement occurred in 2021, when he single-handedly constructed and inaugurated 16 rural roads in Anambra State. This unprecedented act set a high benchmark for using private resources for the public good, demonstrating his deep commitment to rural development and infrastructure.
National Recognition and Honours
Such extraordinary contributions to nation-building have not gone unnoticed. He is a proud recipient of the prestigious Nigerian national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR).
Within the business world, his acumen earned him The Sun Newspaper’s Entrepreneur of the Year award. Furthermore, in recognition of his extensive humanitarian footprint, Nnamdi Azikiwe University awarded him an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Entrepreneurship and Humanitarian Services in May 2024.
A Congratulatory Message from ABT NEWS
The management and staff of ABT NEWS join the good people of Adazi-Ani, Anambra State, and the nation at large in congratulating HRM Dr. Chinedu Benson Madubuko, OFR, Eze Chinechendo I.
Your ascension to the throne is a testament to your unimpeachable character, your love for your roots, and your lifelong dedication to uplifting those around you. May your reign bring peace, unity, prosperity, and unprecedented development to the Adazi-Ani Ancient Kingdom.
Long live Eze Chinechendo I! Long live the Adazi-Ani Ancient Kingdom!
(For more exclusive updates and news coverage, visit www.abtnews.net)
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