Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has extended his congratulations to the newly elected leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, emphasising that Ndigbo are indeed stronger together.
Mbah expressed his satisfaction with both the peaceful process and the outcome of the election held on Friday, describing the election of the new national executive as a collective triumph for Ndigbo around the world. He reminded the new leadership of the pan-Igbo organisation that the Igbo nation harbours high expectations, given their distinguished backgrounds.
The governor made his remarks during a meeting with members of the new National Executive Committee of Ohanaeze, led by the new President-General, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, in his office over the weekend.
“I would like to begin by wholeheartedly congratulating you all, on behalf of the Government and the people of Enugu State, on your election to lead this pivotal organisation. I can only imagine the weight of expectations resting on your shoulders now.
“However, as I mentioned yesterday, this is not merely a personal achievement; it is a collective victory for Ndigbo.
“It also signifies a robust succession plan within Ohanaeze. The election was conducted without any rancour, and I would like to commend my fellow governors for their active participation, recognising how crucial this body is to the affairs of the Ndigbo.
“We know you and your impressive credentials. Your leadership experience and intellectual prowess precede you. Thus, we are confident that you are more than capable of handling the significant challenges ahead, especially considering the existential threats we face as Ndigbo.
“I previously used the metaphor of the arrow to illustrate our strength in unity, suggesting that we are far more formidable as a quiver of arrows than as a single shaft. Similarly, while a broomstick can be easily broken, a bundle of sticks resists snapping. Therefore, I urge us all to present a united front in addressing these challenges.
“We are indeed stronger together. As I stated yesterday, Ohanaeze Ndigbo embodies the spirit of our people. It is an essential organisation, which is why I am thrilled with the profiles of those elected to lead it.
“We hold great expectations for you, and we pray that God blesses you with the wisdom of Solomon and the health needed to guide the affairs of all Ndigbo effectively.”
Earlier, Azuta-Mbata praised Governor Mbah for his leadership and vital contributions to the success of the election.
Senator Mbata while speaking during the visit
He assured that the new executive would be committed to serving Ndigbo and the nation as a whole, particularly in light of the unprecedented support they have received from both the governors and the Igbo community.
“As you know, we have only recently been sworn into office. Your presence, alongside your fellow governors from all Igbo states, marked an unprecedented event in the history of Ohanaeze Ndigbo meetings.
“Thus, we felt it was essential to stop by and express our gratitude for your tremendous support to Ohanaeze Ndigbo. We sincerely appreciate all that you and the people of Enugu State have done and continue to do,” he stated.