Nze Tobe Osigwe (Ezeikolomuo)

Nze Tobenna Osigwe, popularly known as Ezeikolomuo, was born on October 26, 1986, in Nkpoka Nnewichi-Nnewi, Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria. He is a cultural ambassador, professional screenwriter, creative writer, poet, and advocate for a New Nigeria. Nze Tobe’s deep commitment to preserving Igbo culture and traditions has earned him recognition as a prominent voice in the promotion of African heritage.

Family and Early Life

Nze Tobe comes from a family with strong roots in Nnewi. His father, Cornel Elochukwu Peter Osuigwe, passed away in 2001. His mother, Pauline Onukwube Obiageli Osuigwe (née Nwosu), hails from the Nwosu family in Umunnealam village of Umudim quarter in Nnewi. Her lineage is traced back to her father, the late Mr. Ezekiel Nwosu, a descendant of Okpala Nnewi, and her mother, the late Mrs. Doris Nwosu, from the Udegbunam family, Dim Onyedike dynasty of Ebele-Ogo in Umudim. Pauline’s light skin tone is believed to originate from her maternal ancestor, Mgbocha, a woman renowned for her exceptional beauty.

Influence of His Mother: Pauline Osuigwe’s unwavering faith, resilience, and generosity profoundly shaped Nze Tobe’s upbringing. Despite early challenges, Pauline’s home became a sanctuary for abused women, hungry strangers, and disadvantaged children. Her motto, “Purity within and without, without it no man shall see the Lord,” left an indelible impression on him. While Pauline remained a devout Christian, Nze Tobe chose a different spiritual path by embracing Odinani (traditional Igbo religion), with Pauline’s acceptance showcasing her unconditional love and respect for his choices.

Education

Nze Tobe began his education at Good Shepherd Nursery and Primary School in Nnewi. He attended Federal Government College Okigwe for his secondary education and later proceeded to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka for his university education.

Professional Career

Nze Tobe started his professional journey as a teacher, teaching Civic and Government in a secondary school for over five years (2012–2019). His passion for creative writing and storytelling soon took center stage, leading him into the world of screenwriting and film production.

Screenwriting Achievements

As a professional screenwriter, Nze Tobe Osigwe has made significant contributions to Nollywood. His notable works include:

• Writing for the popular television series **”The Johnsons.”
• Penning more than 20 feature films, including the critically acclaimed Thy Will Be Done for director Obi Emelonye.
• Writing about 16 Africa Magic Original Films that have been well-received by audiences.

Cultural Leadership and Transition to Odinani

In 2014, Nze Tobe established and ran a free community library in Nnewi, Onestop Bookshop and Library, which operated for six years (2014–2020). The library became a resource hub for students and the community but was eventually shut down due to his inability to oversee its operations effectively.

From 2018 to 2021, Nze Tobe went underground, ceasing participation in social functions to fully study and understand Odinani. This period marked his spiritual transition from Christianity to the Igbo traditional religion. His dedication to the deep research and practice of Odinani reflected his commitment to reconnecting with his cultural roots and spiritual heritage.

Ozo Title and Cultural Advocacy

Nze Tobe began his initiation into the prestigious Ozo Nnewi institution in January 2022. The process, which took three years, was finalized in July 2022, when he underwent the ancient Igbo rite of Igbu Ichi (facial scarification), marking his entry as an Onye Nze and earning him the revered title Ezeikolomuo.

Nze Tobe emphasizes that Ozo Nnewi is not a one-day affair, but a transformative journey that demands years of preparation, rites, and spiritual fortification. As the youngest Ozo titleholder in Nnewi, he has played a pivotal role in revitalizing interest in Igbo traditions among younger generations.

Contributions to Igbo Culture

Nze Tobe is the Director of Ikolomuo Media, a media outfit established in 2023 that organizes cultural festivals, produces films, and creates educational content. Through initiatives such as Afiaolu Xtra, Nze Tobe’s work is geared toward reawakening true Igbo consciousness and promoting Igbo heritage through:

• Organizing cultural events like the Afìa-Ọlị Festival.
• Promoting traditional Igbo practices such as masquerade displays, dance, and community lectures.
• Producing films and documentaries that highlight African identity and values.

Advocacy for a New Nigeria

Nze Tobe balances his cultural advocacy with a vision for societal transformation. Through his writings, poetry, and speeches, he bridges the gap between traditional values and modern development, emphasizing unity, integrity, and progress. His work reflects a desire to inspire Nigerians to embrace their cultural heritage while striving for a better future.

Personal Life

Nze Tobe Osigwe married his wife on November 23, 2014. Despite his deep involvement in cultural and public life, he remains a devoted family man, upholding the values of mutual respect and shared purpose in his household.

Legacy and Vision

Nze Tobenna Osigwe, Ezeikolomuo, continues to inspire through his creative works, cultural leadership, and spiritual journey. Whether as a professional screenwriter, a cultural ambassador, or the youngest Ozo titleholder in Nnewi, he remains steadfast in his mission to preserve Igbo traditions while fostering a vision for a progressive and united Nigeria. His story is a testament to the enduring relevance of African traditions in a rapidly evolving world.

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