Chinedum Elekwachi
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has urged Igbos to unite to build Igbo nation anchored on strong economic progress, peace and unity.
President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Sen Azuta Mbata made the call on Monday in Awka, Anambra state.
It was at the 2025 Igbo Day celebration themed, “Onye Aghana Nwanne Ya” (Be your brother’s keeper).
Mbata, represented by his deputy, Okey Nwadinobi restated Ohanaeze’s commitment and support for a united Nigeria that cared for all.
He however, called for due recognition of Ndigbo in view of their immense contributions to the Nigeria project.
“Today is a solemn and sacred occasion in the Igbo national calendar for collective reflection.
“It’s a day to honour the memory of the victims of the 1966 pogrom.
“These innocent patriots whose sacrifice continues to inspire the spirit of unity, justice and peace among Ndigbo.
“They were brutally murdered before and during the civil war and they paid the supreme price.
“Let us do what is right and be our brother’s keeper.
“We do not want a desolate Igbo land; we want an Igbo land that will be a choice destination in Nigeria.
“Let us build an Igbo nation anchored on strong economic progress, peace and unity. We work and support a united Nigeria. A Nigeria that cares for all.
“As Ndigbo, we have contributed greatly to Nigeria and have made the nation proud, we deserve to also be recognised.”
Appreciating Gov. Chukwuma Soludo for accepting to host the event, Mbata urged other south east governors to emulate the gesture by getting prepared to do same in subsequent editions.
Let’s Have a Dialogue on the Future uture of Igbo Nation – Soludo
In his remarks, Gov. Soludo said the celebration offered the people of the region opportunity to reflect not just on the past, but on the future.
He called for the release of detained leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
He said his release would enable him participate in the discussion for the future of Ndigbo.
“Today should be a reminder to NdIgbo that never again will we experience another war.
“It should serve as a day for sober reflection, not just for the past, but for the future of our children,” he added.
Soludo who was honored with the title of “Oku Nyelu Ife Ndigbo” by Ohanaeze Ndigbo, thanked the organisation for finding him worthy.
Earlier, Anambra State President, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu said the outstanding performances of the governor informed the conferment of the chieftaincy title.
Okpalaezeukwu who doubles as Planning Committee chairman of the event urges support for Soludo.
