On Friday, January 9, 2026, Chief Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, was conferred with the prestigious traditional title of Okpataozueora I of Oba. The ceremony took place in his hometown of Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area, Anambra State, during the maiden Ofala Festival of Oba.
The title, bestowed by the Igwe of Oba, His Royal Majesty, Engr. Sir Augustine Chinedu Emelobe (Eze Okpoko II), translates to “one whose wealth extends to the community” or “wealth that reaches all.”
A Month of Cultural Recognition
The Okpataozueora title is the second major honor for the Cubana Group Chairman in early 2026. Just days prior, on January 3, 2026, he received the Ife Igbo-Ji-Ka title from the Enugwu-Ukwu na Umunri Traditional Council.
| Date | Location | Chieftaincy Title |
| Jan 3, 2026 | Enugwu-Ukwu na Umunri | Ife Igbo-Ji-Ka |
| Jan 9, 2026 | Oba (Hometown) | Okpataozueora I of Oba |
Why This Title Matters
The monarch emphasized that the honor was not merely a recognition of financial success but a tribute to Cubana’s “broadmindedness” and his “upliftment of others.” * Human Capital Development: Cubana is widely credited with modernizing the Igba-boi (Igbo apprenticeship) system through what scholars now call the “Cubana Principle”—a model of mentoring youths and establishing them in independent businesses.
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Economic Impact: As the head of the Cubana Group, he manages a sprawling empire across hospitality, real estate, and entertainment, creating thousands of jobs for Nigerian youths.
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Infrastructure & Charity: His recent “50 for 50” initiative (marking his 50th birthday in April 2025) involved 50 significant acts of philanthropy, including the distribution of tricycles and small business grants.
The Vision for 2026: Cubana Millennium City
While receiving the title, Obi Cubana reaffirmed his commitment to “attracting greater investment and development opportunities to Anambra State.” A major part of this vision is already taking shape just across the border in Asaba, Delta State, where the Cubana Millennium City project was flagged off in late 2025. This ultra-modern urban development aims to bridge the gap between luxury and affordability, offering premium housing fitted with cutting-edge technology.
“I receive this title with deep humility. It is a call to higher service, and I remain committed to attracting investment and goodwill to Oba and Anambra State at large.” — Obi Cubana
Legacy and Retirement
Interestingly, the billionaire recently revealed plans to retire from active business at 60 (in 2035) to focus on family and travel. Until then, his focus remains on building a lasting legacy that empowers the “next generation of dreamers and doers.”
