The conferment was on Sunday December 27 at the 10th year Remembrance Anniversary/Memorial Service of late Chief Johnson Uzor Kalu, father of Senator Orji Kalu, at Igbere, Bende local government of Abia State.

Announcing the conferment, while decorating the Senate President the traditional rulers said the honour was in recognition and appreciating Lawan for always standing with their son, Kalu.

Accepting the recognition and honour, the Senate President said he was happy to always identify with Senator Kalu, whom he described as childhood friend and former roommate at the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID).

He commended the political leaders in attendance for putting party difference aside and honouring Kalu's late father, adding, "we can achieve more when united" as "Nigeria needs each and everyone to be better."

With the latest title as a 'friend from Diaspora' in Igbere Kingdom, Senator Ahmad Lawan openly declared that he is now a son of the soil with a promise to always associate with Igbere, and the Abia North senatorial district.

Dignitaries at the event included the Senate President Ahmad Lawan, Governors Hope Uzodinma, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and David Umahi of Imo, Enugu and Ebonyi State respectively.

Others were former Chief of Army Staff, General Azubuike Ihejirika (rtd.); Minister of Technology, Chief Ogbonanya Onu, Senators T.A Orji and Eyinanya Abaribe of Abia Central and South senatorial districts respectively.

Also present were former Abia chief of staff, Chief Mascot Uzor Kalu; Philanthropist, Alex Ikwechegh; PDP chieftain, Dr. Chima Anyaso; House of Reps deputy whip, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha and Reps spokesman, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, amongst others.

Earlier during a sermon to mark the memorial service, the prelate of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, His Eminence, Nzie Nsi Eke described late Pa Johnson Uzor Kalu as an accomplished man who lived an impeccable lifestyle while alive.

It is instructive to know that Pa Johnson Uzor Kalu who died in 2010 lived for 90 years.