By Ovie Okpare
Olorogun Ibru, who hailed from Agbarha-Otor Kingdom in Delta State, is the first Nigerian to be honoured with the “Blue Heritage Plague” for their exemplary life and contributions to the development of Britain.
The Urhobo-born business merchant was honoured with the plague on Saturday at his former Kensington home where he lived for 33 years.
Born 25 December 1930, Michael Ibru died 6 September 2016 at the United States of America.
He was a Nigerian philanthropist and head of the Ibru Organization, one of the largest conglomerates in Nigeria.
Late Olorogun Ibru joins the likes of world renowned reggae musician, Bob Marley and Bermuda-born abolitionist and author, Mary Prince, since Nubian Jak came into existence in 2006.
NJCT is a commemorative plaque and sculpture scheme founded by Jak Beula that highlights the historic contributions of Black and minority ethnic people in Britain.
The first NJCT heritage plaque, honouring Bob Marley, was unveiled in 2006 after “two years of research and behind the scenes negotiating”.
The scheme has been run and managed by the not-for-profit organization Nubian Jak Trust Ltd since August 2016, with a remit to commemorate and celebrate the diverse history of modern Britain.
Its objectives include the promotion of social equality and to encourage activities that promote cultural diversity in society.