A grand celebration filled with heartfelt tributes, cultural elegance, and reflections on legacy marked the unveiling of The Chronicles of a Legend, a biography chronicling the life of Gabriel Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin Kingdom.

Held at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, the event attracted dignitaries from Nigeria’s political, academic, and traditional spheres.

Traditional performances set the tone outside the venue, as women adorned in red velvet wrappers, coral beads, and traditional attire sang and danced in honour of the revered figure. Some guests joined the festivities, while others offered cash gifts before entering the event hall.

“This book is more than a biography; it embodies resilience, vision, and dedicated service,” said one speaker, highlighting Igbinedion’s pioneering roles in founding Okada Air and Igbinedion University—ventures once thought impossible.

Prominent figures including the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Senate President Bukola Saraki commended Igbinedion’s trailblazing legacy. Obi pledged a 10-year personal endowment to Igbinedion University in recognition of the Esama’s enduring commitment to education.

Also making a significant contribution, former Delta State Governor James Ibori donated N100 million to the university—half allocated to establishing a Chair in the Economics Department, and the other half directed toward infrastructure and institutional growth.

During an emotional speech, Igbinedion reflected on his journey:
“I wasn’t born into greatness; I built it—step by step, coin by coin, prayer by prayer. True legacy lies not in wealth but in the values we impart. If wealth is all you leave behind, you have failed.”

Professor Lawrence Ezemonye, Vice Chancellor of Igbinedion University, while reviewing the book, praised its literary merit and the scale of Esama’s achievements.

“This is not just history—it’s powerful literature. It captures tempests, carves paths through stone. With over 33 companies and more than 17,000 employees, the Esama’s legacy is not only inspiring but substantial.”

Distinguished attendees included media personality Dele Momodu, Emir Aminu Ado-Bayero of Kano, and many others who came to honour the life and legacy of the man celebrated as a national icon.