Dr. Nwigwe Becomes Royal Matriarch of Ikenga Abiama Dynasty of Igboland
The Board of Trustee and Executive of Ikenga Dynasty Foundation has formally approved the conferment of Her Royal Highness, Dr. (Mrs.) Love Nwabudo Nwigwe (NNEOHA) with the Honorary Title of the Royal Matriarch, Commander of Women Affairs, of Ikenga Dynasty of Igboland, Federal Republic of Nigeria in recognition of her outstanding contributions towards promotion of Igbo cultural heritage and progress around the globe.
Her appointment was confirmed in a royal seal dated 1st of September 2024.
An official statement signed by the Founder and Chairperson of Ikenga Abiama Dynasty Foundation, Amb. Dr. Uba Iwunwa, Queen Ugobeze, described Dr. Nwigwe as a passionate advocate for human rights and a dedicated community leader, with a rich and diverse background.
“Love is someone I admire so much because she is a quality-driven and accountable individual, devoted to creating an inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Her work is driven by a commitment to fostering a more equitable and cohesive society through meaningful dialogue, understanding, and collaboration among diverse communities.
Born in Nigeria, raised in Italy, and currently residing in Red Deer, Alberta, Canada, Dr. Love Nwigwe holds a BSc, MH, CNHP, and Ph.D. As the founder of the International Women of Purpose Cultural Association in Red Deer, Alberta, she is deeply involved in promoting creative arts and culture.
Dr. Nwigwe is an ordained minister of the gospel and a woman of faith who stands firmly against injustice. Love thrives in environments characterized by equality, mutual respect, and opportunities for creativity and success. She is an anti-racism advisor, wellness consultant, and community mentor, particularly for Black youth and women.
She provides counseling to community members who experience bullying based on their skin color. Her creative work includes writing, directing, and producing the award-winning film “I Can’t Breathe,” which addresses racial discrimination and was funded by Telus StoryHive.
She was also nominated as a successful StoryHive creator and has served as a panelist and screener at the Cannes Festival in 2023 and 2024, respectively.
Married to Prince Nwigwe and a mother of four children who are making positive impacts in their communities, Love has received numerous accolades for her humanitarian efforts and contributions to the arts. Her honors include: Sydney Corell Humanitarian Award (2017, Charlotte, USA); Diversity Award (2018, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada); DDEA Humanitarian Award (2022, Baltimore, USA); NBCC FIL Fraser Award for Outstanding Work in Visual Arts (2023, Edmonton, Alberta); International Celebrity Award for Authentic Work in Visual Arts (2023, Paris, France); Nigerian Progressive Union Humanitarian Award (2024, Nigeria); Nomination as a Community Healer (2024, Black Healthcare Professional Network) and Community Builder Award (2024, Mayor’s Award, Red Deer, Alberta).