Asantehene celebrates Special Akwasidae

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, would celebrate a special Akwasidae on Sunday November 19 at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.

A release issued from the Palace on Wednesday and signed by Mr Kofi Badu, Chief of Staff said the Special Guest of Honour would be Chief Sir Dr Gabriel Osawaru Igbinidion, Esama of Kingdom of Benin, in Edo State, Nigeria.

It said in addition to being an eminent chief of Benin Kingdom, Chief Igbinidion was one of Nigeria's top ranking industrialists and entrepreneurs with interests ranging from aviation, automobiles, soft drinks and beverages.

Others are housing and construction, agriculture, power and energy, banking, shipping and crude oil exploration.

The release said Chief Igbinidion was the first Nigerian to venture into aviation when he established Okada Airlines, now one of the biggest indigenous airlines in Africa, with a fleet including Boeing 747.

It said he was the founder of a major educational centre, a medical centre and Igbinidion University and also owns a radio and television station.

The release said Chief Igbinidion was the holder of several academic and professional honours including honorary doctorate degrees from 10 universities.

Other distinguished guests expected to participate in the Akwasidae were Ambassadors of 10 countries, Ghanaian Ambassadors accredited to some countries and a delegation from Libya.