Ohaneze Ndigbo, the Apex Igbo Socio-Cultural Organization has announced the introduction of strategic reforms, including new institutional frameworks to safeguard the Igbo identity and strengthen its socio-economic future.
The President General of the group, Sen. Azuta-Mbata made this known on Tuesday when the National Executive Council of the organisation paid a courtesy visit to the Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, at Nvosi in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
Represented by his Deputy, Dr. Okey Nwadinobi, the President-General disclosed that as part of efforts to preserve the Igbo heritage, the Organization has established a seven professorial endowment chairs; one in each South-East State, to promote the Igbo language and culture within tertiary institutions.
The Ohaneze President General further further revealed that a new draft constitution had been prepared and would soon be presented to the general assembly for ratification.
He noted that the Ohaneze ndigbo leadership has made significant progress in repositioning the apex Igbo socio-cultural Organisation since assuming office in January 2025.
Sen Azuta Mbata said that the organisation in line with resolve evolved initiatives which include a retreat to define strategic goals and the development of a four-year work plan to enable it achieve its goal.
The President-General also highlighted the revival of the Igbo Investment Company and the Igbo Development Foundation to drive economic development initiatives for the Igbo nation, noting that economic empowerment remains central to safeguarding the people’s future.
He said the organisation has introduced an annual Igbo Adoration and Thanksgiving Day to celebrate the preservation, resilience and progress of the Igbo people.
Azuta-Mbata commended Governor Otti for supporting and facilitating the activities of Ohanaeze in Abia State and across the region and lauded the Governor’s achievements in Education, Healthcare, Road Infrastructure and Urban Renewal.
According to him, the introduction of free Primary and Junior Secondary Education has relieved families of financial burdens, while the expansion of health centres and improved road networks has enhanced accessibility and safety of citizens.
He described the present administration’s ongoing Urban Renewal Projects in Aba and Umuahia as reflective of global best practices in city planning.
Sen. Amuta-Mbata, who cited an independent survey, said the majority of Abia residents are satisfied with the performance of the present administration.
The Ohanaeze leader appealed for strategic engagement to address challenges faced by Igbos living outside the South-East, particularly in Lagos and Abuja.
He urged South-East Governors to strengthen collaboration on regional development, especially in the area of power supply, which he described as essential for economic growth.
The Ohaneze ndigbo President thanked the Governor Otti for his support and pledged continued partnership with the State Government to advance the interests of Ndi Igbo.
Responding, Governor Otti commended the leadership of Ohanaeze under Sen. Azuta-Mbata for what he described as purposeful and impactful administration.
“We are very happy with the progress that has been made so far. We knew you had the capacity to do the job, and one year on, we are not disappointed”, he stated.
On the condition of Igbo traders in Lagos, the Governor stated that he had held discussions with his counterpart in Lagos State regarding the safety of Igbo-owned businesses.
According to him, the Lagos State Governor gave firm assurances that Ndigbo and their commercial interests in the State remain secure.
Governor Otti, however, called for moral suasion and a deliberate reorientation within the Igbo business community in Lagos, urging traders to review and where necessary, adjust their modes of operation in order to foster harmony and mutual respect.
The Governor noted that he had taken account of the issues raised and would explore areas where the State government could assist.
Governor Otti reiterated his commitment to supporting the Apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, noting his intervention in renovating their State Secretariat and offsetting years of arrears owed.
He congratulated them on the Ohanaeze National Secretariat that is nearing completion and assured that he would be part of the Commissioning.
