Obong of Calabar honours Chinese Businessman with Efik Chieftaincy Title
By Akpan Williams
The Obong of Calabar, His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V has bestowed the honorary chieftaincy title of Ada Idaha Ke Efik Eburutu (The Pillar of Strength of Efik Eburutu Kingdom) on Mr. Wu Fuqiang, otherwise called, Mr. Gorge Woo, Chairman of Jiangsu High Hope Group SKYRUN Co. Ltd.
The grand ceremony took place on Friday at the Palace of the Obong of Calabar, Efangha Nsa Street, Calabar South, LGA, Cross River State.
In his welcome address, HRH Etubom Bassey Okor Bassey Duke, Chairman of the Etuboms’ Traditional Council, enumerated the deep cultural and economic ties nurtured by Mr. Wu’s company over two decades of operation in the Calabar Free Trade Zone.
“The Obong of Calabar is a Natural Ruler, a Treaty King, and a Defender of the Christian Faith,” Duke stated.
“Today, we honour Mr. Wu Fuqiang, a man whose company has positively impacted our land and people and embodies the values we cherish.”
, “SKYRUN’s operations have brought significant economic benefits to Cross River State, including the employment of 1,000 local workers and the establishment of state-of-the-art factories for electronics manufacturing which includes, LCD Televisions, Deep-Freezers, as well as other household electronic items”
Mr Wu’s efforts to empower youth through technical training, scholarships, and skill acquisition programs were also commended”
“Under Mr. Wu’s leadership, SKYRUN has become a beacon of industrial excellence in Nigeria, offering affordable, high-quality products while fostering local talent,” Duke noted.
Mr. Wu expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition. “This award is a testament to the enduring friendship between China and Nigeria,” he said. “We will continue collaborating with the Efik people to promote and preserve their cultural heritage while enhancing economic ties.”
The conferment ceremony underlined the cultural diplomacy between the two nations. “The Efik people have a rich culture rooted in peace and prosperity, which has created a friendly environment for businesses like SKYRUN to thrive,” Mr Wu added.
The honorary title reflects not only Mr. Wu’s personal achievements but also the growing partnership between China and Nigeria. The event concluded with a call to deepen this bilateral relationship further, strengthening mutual respect and collaboration.
