Etsu Nupe Honours Trade Fair Chief Ndanusa, with Coveted Traditional Title
Abuja Afrik24 – Barr. Mrs. Vera Ndanusa, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board (LITFCMB), has been officially recognized for her outstanding administrative achievements by receiving the revered “Soniyan Ayuka Nupe” chieftaincy title in Niger State.
Held on May 30, 2026, the grand investiture served as a testament to her dedication to national growth and public service, attracting an elite gathering of royal monarchs, top-tier politicians, and influential community leaders.
The honour was officially bestowed upon her at the historic Bida Emirate Council by His Royal Highness Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, the paramount ruler of the Nupe Kingdom and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers.
The chieftaincy title, translating to “The General Overseer of Works” or “Chief Director of Works and Labour,” is strictly reserved for individuals who have distinguished themselves through exceptional leadership and service delivery, our correspondent gathered.
Attracting high-profile dignitaries, the event hosted the Executive Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umar Bago; the Executive Secretary of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mrs. Rose Oriaran-Anthony; and Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, who was represented by a senior aide.
Other notable attendees included former first ladies of the state, senators, staff of the Trade Fair Management Board, trade complex market stakeholders, and a large gathering of friends and well-wishers.
Significance of the Title for Barrister Vera Ndanusa
For Ndanusa, the traditional title serves as a profound validation of her years of rigorous public service, particularly her stewardship over one of West Africa’s largest trading hubs.
Receiving the title establishes her as a vital bridge between formal corporate governance and the rich cultural heritage of Northern Nigeria, elevating her influence beyond the economic sector into the realm of community and cultural leadership.
Driving Societal Improvement
As the newly turbaned Soniyan Ayuka Nupe, Ndanusa is positioned to leverage the title to foster community development, mentorship, and economic inclusion.
By embodying the role of a “Chief Director of Labour,” Ndanusa will champion initiatives that support grassroots traders, empower women and youth through skill acquisition, and strengthen economic partnerships between Lagos and Niger States.
The honor provides her with a unique platform to advocate for infrastructure development, promote unity across regional boundaries, and inspire a new generation of public servants to lead with integrity and dedication, our correspondent said.
Before her appointment as the Chief Executive Officer of the Trade Fair Complex Management Board, Ndanusa served as the President of the Nigerian Association of Women Entrepreneurs (NAWE).
