Amidst the vibrant cultural tapestry of Cameroon, His Royal Highness, Onyengubo Jonathan Thomas, holds the esteemed position as the head of the Nigerian Igbo community, known as Ohana Eze Ndi Igbo Cameroon. This important leadership role, along with the conferral of the title Gburu Gburu 1- which refers to ‘overall head’ in literal translation – propelled him to the status of a respected figure and leader, in recognition of his vast influence and impact on the community.

Following his conferment as Eze Gburu Gburu 1 in Tiko and assuming the leadership role of Ohana Eze Ndi Igbo in Cameroon, HRH Onyengubo Jonathan Thomas demonstrated his exceptional organizational abilities by swiftly initiating the establishment of the Assembly of Igbo People in Cameroon.

His first major endeavor was spearheading the inauguration of the Limbe Chapter of Ohana Eze Ndi Igbo, where significant and unprecedented decisions were made. The event received extensive media coverage, with flashy newspaper publications highlighting the proceedings. Notably, one publication grabbed attention, proclaiming that « All Igbo Community in Cameroon earmarks 110 Million FCFA for the construction of a Civic Center and school in Limbe. »

During a press briefing held at the conclusion of the occasion, HRH Onyengubo Jonathan Thomas reemphasized the purpose of the event. He stated, « As you can see, the primary aim is to promote our rich culture and to make our people aware of our heritage. It is essential for them to recognize and embrace our cultural identity. Through this forum, they will also have the opportunity to learn our native language, the Igbo language, and understand that we have brothers throughout Cameroon who share the same language and heritage. » He further elaborated that the executive team established in Limbe serves as the foundation for a longstanding endeavor that has been in progress for several years.

HRH Thomas connects with humanity, touching the lives of both ordinary people and the upper echelons of society. Wherever he goes, his lasting impression is etched in the hearts of those he touches, leaving a meaningful impact.

With greater strides on his philanthropic path, the remarkable humanitarian gesture of the Nigerian business magnate unfolded when he funded the release of 22 inmates at the Buea Central Prison. This unprecedented act saw him paying the sum of 2.750.000 FCFA to secure the freedom of these individuals. The event took place within the confines of the prison premises, on Thursday April 28, 2016.

During the event at the Buea Central Prison, HRH Onyengubo Jonathan Thomas shared insights into the motive behind his benevolent act, which was geared towards fostering collaboration between Cameroon and Nigeria, particularly in the domains of development. He expressed that his intention was to provide the released inmates with a fresh start in life and encouraged them to grasp the opportunity to reclaim their freedom. He described this gesture as his way of paying tithes, explaining that his belief differs from the conventional notion of giving to a church or pastor. For him, this act of compassion is his offering to God, with the ultimate desire to witness these individuals leaving the prison walls behind to embrace a brighter future.

The occasion witnessed the presence of State Counsels and members of the judiciary from Muyuka, Limbe, Tiko and Buea, towns from which the prisoners originated, indicating the significance of the event and its impact on all communities.

In his advocacy for peace and understanding between the two nations, HRH Thomas emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation in tackling shared security concerns. In the midst of heightened tensions and crises in Cameroon, he vocalized a powerful message, urging both Cameroonians and Nigerians to place great confidence in their leaders as they confronted the challenges posed by the Boko Haram insurgency.

As a quasi-Cameroonian figure with strong Nigerian roots, his opinions matter and resonates with people on both sides of the border. His efforts as a peace advocate have been instrumental in promoting mutual trust and cooperation during challenging times in the region.

Through his visionary leadership, he has effectively established a thriving platform for economic growth and job creation, particularly in the second-hand clothing industry, as well as other ventures. Additionally, his charitable Foundation focuses on uplifting the less privileged in the Republic of Cameroon. As a result of these commendable initiatives, Thomas has garnered numerous awards and accolades over the years.

In a show of unity, Ambassador Abayomi Olonisakin was honored with a courtesy visit from HRH EZE Thomas Jonathan Onyengubo, shortly after assuming his role as Nigeria High Commissioner, to officially extend a warm welcome to him.

In his address, Ambassador Olonisakin expressed his delight at the positive impact HRH EZE Thomas Jonathan Onyengubo had made on the lives of Nigerians residing in Cameroon. He commended the monarch for his dedication to assisting fellow Nigerians in their businesses and for going above and beyond to secure the release of those imprisoned. The Ambassador praised him for exemplifying true patriotism and representing the Nigerian community in an exceptional manner. He assured HRH EZE Thomas Jonathan Onyengubo of the Nigeria High Commission’s unwavering support and commitment to assisting and representing him appropriately.

In response, HRH EZE Thomas Jonathan Onyengubo showered praises upon Ambassador Olonisakin, acknowledging his impressive credentials, experience and background. He expressed confidence that President Muhammudu Buhari’s choice of Ambassador Olonisakin for the position of Nigeria High Commissioner in Cameroon was well-founded. He extended warm congratulations once again and expressed his heartfelt wishes for a successful and fulfilling tenure in the country.

Onyengubo Jonathan Thomas, Eze Gburu Gburu 1, has recently been honored by the President of the Republic of Cameroon, Paul Biya, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to alleviating unemployment among the country’s youth.

Through the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, the State of Cameroon acknowledged the Nigerian philanthropist and Ambassador for Peace, for his remarkable impact on the country’s economy. Particularly noteworthy were his efforts in securing the release of Nigerian nationals imprisoned for minor offenses and facilitating their rehabilitation and empowerment, as well as assisting Cameroonians and nationals from other countries facing similar circumstances.

In a grand ceremony held in Douala, in the Littoral Region of the Republic of Cameroon, Onyengubo Jonathan Thomas was adorned with prestigious Silver, Bronze and Gold Medals. The esteemed honor was bestowed upon him by the Senior Divisional Officer, SDO of Wouri, Benjamin Mboutou, under the supervision of Littoral Region Governor, Samuel Dieudonne Ivaha Diboua, on behalf of the Head of State, H.E. Mr. Paul Biya. This distinguished award ceremony took place on the sidelines of the commemorative activities for the 2023 International Labour Day.

Upon receiving the medals, HRH Thomas expressed his gratitude and acknowledged the State’s recognition as a motivating call to further action. He emphasized the significance of being honored on this occasion by the State, particularly through the Labor Minister, highlighting that it serves as a profound reminder to continue striving for economic development.

HRH EZE Thomas Jonathan Onyengubo’s continued commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of people serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the present and future generations in both Nigeria and Cameroon. Through his philanthropic endeavors and dedicated service as a traditional leader, he has created a legacy that will leave a lasting impact on communities far beyond his lifetime.

By bridging cultural gaps and promoting dialogue, he paves the way for constructive cooperation, mutual respect and shared progress, leading to significant changes on a broader scale as he communicates a sense of unity that transcends borders.