Tributes Pour In For Oba Donald Arinze Nwandu At 80

It has been a season of glowing tributes and celebrations for Oba (Arc.) Donald Arinze Nwandu, as Nigerians from all walks of life continue to honour the revered architect and community leader who recently clocked 80.

Over the past month, a series of events including goodwill messages, public lectures, personal visits, and sporting activities have been organized in his honour to celebrate his remarkable life and achievements.

Among those who sent goodwill messages were the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Highness Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN; Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka which houses the D.A. Nwandu Architectural Research Centre donated by the Nwandu family; and the Traditional Ruler of Enugwu-Ukwu, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Sir Ralph Ekpeh.

Prof. Azinge extolled Oba Nwandu’s “phenomenal leadership” in the architectural profession, particularly his role in the Enugu State chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) and at the national level.

He noted Nwandu’s contributions to advancing the profession globally by ensuring Nigerian architects’ participation in international conferences and facilitating Nigeria’s hosting of such events.

Also paying tribute, Igwe Sir Ralph Ekpeh of Enugwu-Ukwu described Oba Nwandu as a pillar of leadership within the Nwandu dynasty and Igboland at large.

He recalled Nwandu’s dedicated service as the traditional prime minister to the late Igwe Osita Agwuna and his stewardship as regent before the enthronement of a substantive monarch.

The Executive Director, Finance and Administration of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Barr. Chudi Offodile, also commended Nwandu for his “mastery, innovation, leadership and resourcefulness” in architecture and public service.

The celebrations were formally flagged off with a prayer service and reception held at Sunshine Hotel, Enugu, under the distinguished chairmanship of Chief Nnia Nwodo, former Minister of Aviation and Information and past President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.

The event attracted several dignitaries, including alumni of Methodist College, Uzuakoli.

As part of the ongoing festivities, the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Enugu State chapter, has announced a Book of Tributes in honour of “The Life and Works of Architect Oba Donald Arinze Nwandu.” The presentation is slated for the International Conference Centre, Enugu.

In addition, a special Oba @ 80 Golf Kitty will hold at the Enugu Sports Club on Saturday, November 8, 2025, alongside the NIA’s quarterly dinner, where prominent architects and distinguished Nigerians are expected to converge to celebrate the octogenarian’s legacy.