‘The Chronicles of a Legend’: Igbinedion Book Launch Attracts National Leaders

The House of Igbinedion today officially launched The Chronicles of a Legend, a commemorative book detailing the extraordinary life and legacy of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of the Benin Kingdom. The high-profile ceremony, held in Benin City, brought together an impressive lineup of dignitaries and national figures from across Nigeria.

Among those in attendance were former Senate President Bukola Saraki, former Delta State Governor James Ibori, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and the Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado-Bayero, as well as representatives of the federal and Edo State governments.

The publication honours Igbinedion’s trailblazing contributions to Nigeria’s development, particularly in education, transport, banking, and entrepreneurship. A respected pioneer in these sectors, the Esama’s ventures—such as the establishment of Igbinedion University, Okada, and the country’s first private airline—remain milestones in Nigeria’s private sector history.

In his remarks, Peter Obi called for deeper national appreciation of Igbinedion’s impact.

“We live in a country that often fails to celebrate its true heroes. Chief Igbinedion built the first private university, pioneered private airline operations, and was among the first recipients of a banking license. These are legacies that deserve more than honorary titles—they require national support,” Obi stated.

He went on to advocate for a shift in the criteria for national awards, urging that honours such as GCON be directed toward individuals with proven contributions to enterprise and job creation.

“The people we should be celebrating are those building the nation through productivity, not just us politicians,” Obi added, pledging an annual donation to the Esama’s endowment fund for the next decade.

James Ibori, who presented the book, also made a generous pledge of ₦100 million to Igbinedion University, dedicating ₦50 million to establish an endowed chair in Economics and the other ₦50 million to institutional support.

“He gave us education at all levels—nursery to university. What more can one man do for humanity?” Ibori said.

The event also featured remarks from George Akume, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Dennis Idahosa, representing Governor Godwin Obaseki, both reaffirming Igbinedion’s place as a national figure whose legacy transcends state boundaries.

The Chronicles of a Legend serves not only as a biography but as an enduring symbol of visionary leadership, philanthropy, and private sector innovation. It celebrates a life dedicated to nation-building and sets a benchmark for what it means to lead with purpose and impact.

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