In a grand ceremony celebrating excellence and community impact, the Ohafia Hall of Fame has bestowed its prestigious Ebube Mba Award upon a legendary Nigerian sports icon. The recipient is none other than former UPE World Heavyweight Wrestling Champion, Osita Offor, widely celebrated as De Ultimate Commander.
A Prestigious Honour for a Community Pillar
The event, held on 3 January 2026, saw a gathering of Ohafia's most eminent figures. The award was presented by the Chairman of Ohafia Local Council, Chief Eleanya Ojuu Kalu, who also represented the Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti. In his remarks, Kalu stated that the recognition symbolized the state government's deep respect for excellence, dedicated community service, and visionary leadership—qualities he said the awardee consistently demonstrates.
Offor, who also holds the traditional title of Ikenga Gburugburu 1 of Ohafia, was honoured for his outstanding achievements and his significant service to humanity, extending far beyond his legendary exploits in the wrestling ring.
A Gathering of Who's Who in Ohafia
The ceremony was a star-studded affair, attracting a diverse array of distinguished guests. The audience included traditional rulers, political leaders, captains of industry, and sons and daughters of Ohafia from across the globe.
A notable delegation joined Chief Kalu in presenting the award to De Ultimate Commander. This group included:
- Paul and Peter Okwara
- Kalu Mba Nwoke, the member representing Ohafia South State Constituency
- The chief launcher, Chukwudi Kalu (Agumba 1/ Okaaome 1 of Isiugwu Ohafia)
- Members of the United Abia Artistes and Patriots (UAAP) Forum, represented by legendary Nollywood actress, Mrs. Chinyere Nwabueze
- Chief Uduma Mong, the Abia State Director of Land
The successful 2025 Ohafia Hall of Fame initiative was orchestrated by a dedicated committee led by Chief Mba Ukaha as Chairman of the Screening and Planning Committee. Other key organisers were Nze Uche Ohafia, Chief Uduma Nnate, and Chief Joseph Eke Kalu, who delivered the keynote address titled 'Akuruaule'.
Commander's Dedication and a Call for Sporting Legacy
In his acceptance speech, Osita Offor dedicated the Ebube Mba Award to the visionary leadership and developmental strides of Governor Alex Otti and his deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu. He praised their commitment to good governance, transparency, and people-oriented policies, noting that such leadership inspires citizens and stakeholders alike.
He expressed profound gratitude to the Ohafia Hall of Fame Committee and the entire Ohafia nation for the honour. Offor also reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to humanitarian service, youth empowerment, cultural promotion, and overall community development.
Earlier in the programme, Council Chairman Chief Kalu made a significant proposal to the former world champion. He urged De Ultimate Commander to consider hosting an international-standard world wrestling or boxing fiesta in Ohafia. Kalu assured that his government and the people of the community were ready and willing to collaborate to make such a championship a reality, aiming to put Ohafia on the global sports map.
The honouring of De Ultimate Commander underscores the community's pride in its heroes who excel on world stages and return to contribute meaningfully to their roots. The Ebube Mba Award serves as a powerful testament to a life dedicated to strength, service, and the spirit of Ohafia.
