Manyu Chiefs Honour Governor Okalia Bilai with Prestigious “Nfor Ba Nfor” Traditional Title

Traditional rulers of Manyu Division in Cameroon’s South-West Region have honoured Governor Bernard Okalia Bilai with the prestigious traditional title of “Nfor Ba Nfor”, meaning Chief of Chiefs of Manyu, in recognition of his leadership and contribution to the development of the region.

The honour was conferred during a ceremony in Mamfe on June 11, 2026, following the Regional Administrative and Security Coordination Meeting chaired by the Governor.

After the meeting, members of the Manyu Traditional Rulers Association requested an audience with Governor Okalia Bilai and later presented him in traditional regalia before announcing the special recognition.

The event was attended by administrative authorities, including Senior Divisional Officers from the South-West Region, the President of the South-West Regional Assembly, the President of the South-West Chiefs Conference and the President of the South-West House of Chiefs.

The President of the Manyu Traditional Rulers Association, Chief Orock John Garaga, officially declared the Governor as Nfor Ba Nfor, a title described as the highest traditional honour in Manyu Division.

Chiefs explained that the recognition was based on the Governor’s leadership, resilience and efforts towards promoting development and stability in the South-West Region.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Chief of Mamfe, HRM Dr Godson Orock Oben, explained the significance of the title.

“Nfor Ba Nfor means Chief of Chiefs of Manyu. As the Governor enters into Manyu Division, we are all his subjects because he is above all of us put together,” he said.

The traditional rulers also praised the Governor’s role during years of security challenges in the North-West and South-West regions, citing the improvement of road infrastructure, particularly the Kumba-Mamfe road, as one of the developments linked to his tenure.

The Governor expressed gratitude for the honour, describing it as a symbol of stronger relations between the administration and traditional institutions.

“I am very proud of the Manyu chiefs. This title will go a long way in strengthening the bond between the State and the people,” Governor Okalia Bilai said.

He called on the population to protect peace and preserve development achievements recorded in the region.

“The peace and development projects achieved must be protected,” he added.

The conferment makes Governor Okalia Bilai the first person to receive the “Nfor Ba Nfor” title, according to Manyu traditional authorities.

The recognition also marks a significant improvement in relations between the Governor and traditional rulers. His relationship with some chiefs had previously faced tensions in 2019 following comments concerning National Day celebrations and the role of traditional leaders.

However, the relationship has since improved, with chiefs now describing him as a partner in promoting unity, peace and development in the South-West Region.

By Lasha Kingsly