By Elijah Ugani
It was a celebration galore as the Eniiri people of Ibil Kingdom, unveiled the Ntol-Atol of Ibil, His Royal Highness, Ntol Felix Ugbashe Ijanyi Ibu.
The event which brought together dignitaries from all works of life held today, May 9th 2026 at St Michael’s Primary School, Ibil – Ogoja, also had a launching of a magnificent 50 Million Ntol palace.
In a welcome address on behalf of the Ibil nation, Chief Austin Edibe, noted that the Chieftaincy institution in Ibil remains a pillar of the community’s identity and authority which has continued to uphold the unity, stability and progress of their people.
Speaking on the preparedness of the Ntol-Atol of Ibil, Ntol Felix Ugbashe Ijanyi Ibu, Chief Austin Edibe noted that “He began his career as a classroom teacher, and later distinguished himself in banking, education administration and management. In retirement, he devoted himself to service in the church, Rotary Club and the wider community. These experiences have prepared him for the responsibility he now assumes”.
Chief Austin Edibe, congratulated the Ntol-Atol for accepting the responsibility. “Your Royal Highness, we congratulate you on accepting this sacred responsibility. Leadership at this level calls for vision, discipline and commitment to service. We are confident in your capacity to guide this stewardship. We urge you to lead with integrity and fairness. Listen to your people and respond with wisdom. Preserve our traditions while remaining open to ideas that will advance the progress of our people. A leader who walks with the people never walks alone.
“Today’s gathering reflects our hope for a united and prosperous Ibil. It also reminds us of our duty to uphold moral and cultural values that will guide the next generation, especially our youth facing changing and challenging world. We reaffirm our loyalty and support to your leadership in the pursuit of peace, unity and sustainable development”.
Speaking during the palace launch, the Chief launcher, Chief John George, Chairman and Chief Executive of Sub-Sea 9, noted that “This day is not just about bricks and mortar. It is about legacy, about the enduring strength of our culture, and about the vision of a leader whose life has been dedicated to the service of his people. Ntol Felix embodies wisdom, courage and the spirit of unity. His reign has been marked by peace, progress, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of Ibil.
“I must acknowledge the robust relationship we share with Distinguished Sen Jarigbe and other persons who have consistently stood by Ibil. Their presence here today underscores the importance of this project and the unity of purpose that binds us together. For me, as one deeply connected to this land and its people, it is not just a duty but a privilege to be involved in anything connecting Ibil.
“But let me be clear; such a monumental project cannot be carried out by one man alone. It requires the collective strength of all of us. I therefore urge each an everyone of you to contribute handsomely to this noble cause. Let your giving be a tastement to your love for Ibil, your respect for Ntol Felix, and your commitment to the future of our community”.
Chief John George made a donation of 10 Million Naira towards the building of the palace of Ntol Ibil.
Speaking with Theluminenews, the Ntol-Atol of Ibil, Ntol Felix Ugbashe Ijanyi Ibu, noted that “There have been a lot of skepticism when it comes to chieftaincy and because of the rituals involved. The last traditional ruler of Ibil Ntol Gregory Adima, who also served as the Clan Head of Nkum and later paramount Ruler of Ogoja. He transited to the great beyond on the 25th December, 2017, so since then this community has not been able to get a traditional ruler”.
The Ntol-Atol of Ibil, noted that he was among those who were at the forefront of searching for a traditional ruler for Ibil and never knew that his people wanted him to serve them. “I was
on a hunt for a traditional ruler and didn’t know that I was gamed. Being in the forefront to advocate for a traditional ruler for Ibil, I couldn’t decline when my people unanimously agreed that I should be the one to serve them now”. He stated.
Speaking on how he intends to bridge the gap between most of the traditions and practices in most communities that are variance with known laws of the country, the Ntol-Atol of Ibil, noted that “When I was coronated, some some of the youths came to me and said that now that I have been appointed to lead them, they are sure that most of their challenges will be resolved. But I told them that we will collectively be involved in running the affairs of Ibil.
“I told them that I will consult with the youths, elders, women. I have started consultation. And I charged them to come up with a way forward to move the community. Both the youths and the women came up with useful suggestions and that will take us forward”.
When asked on the importance of the unveiling, the Ntol-Atol of Ibil noted that “Since my coronation, I have been confined to my house, I haven’t gone passed the church. And I have not performed the functions of a traditional ruler. The unveiling now gives me the mandate to perform the functions of a traditional ruler and allows me to move freely while discharging my duties”.
In a goodwill message, Sen Jarigbe Agom who hails from Ibil noted that “With a grateful heart and a deep sense of pride, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Royal Highness, Ntol Felix Ugbashe Ijanyi Ibu, Ntol-Atol of Ibil, traditional rulers and the good people of Ibil Kingdom on the occasion of the unveiling ceremony of His Royal Highness of Ibil.
“This is a moment of great joy not only for Ibil Kingdom, but for the entire Bakor. The unveiling ceremony is a tastement to the strength of faith, family values, and communal support that our community embodies. It is truly a blessing to witness this call to the service of sacred service of humanity.
“I commend the traditional rulers for nurturing the spirit of vocation and pray that this milestone inspires many more youth to pursue lives of purpose, disciples and service”.
Highlights of the occasion was the presentation of a Toyota Highlander to the Ntol-Atol of Ibil, by Sen Jarigbe Agom, represented by Chief Austin Edibe, launching of the Ntol palace, traditional dances, community/group greetings and pledges of allegiance to the Ntol-Atol.
