A coalition of Ndigbo at home and in the Diaspora is set to unveil a sustainable development plan for the Southeast known as Ndigbo Workable Development Goals – 2035 (Ndigbo-2035), aimed at creating 2.5 million new jobs and lifting 5 million people out of poverty.
This was disclosed by its programme director, Rev. Chidi Jacob, who said the project was “a private sector-led ecosystem aimed at empowering communities, driving innovation and creating a scalable model for Africa’s future.
“Ndigbo-2035 is dedicated to bridging the South East’s development gaps by integrating private sector innovation with government initiatives, ensuring long reduction of rural-to-urban migration, rejuvenate rural economies and accelerate the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
He said key projects such as the Ndigbo Integrated Farm Estates Scheme (NIFES) and the cluster hubs would empower smallholder farmers, establish export clusters and boost non-oil exports via Special Economic Zones with projected annual revenues of $1.5 billion.
Powered by South East Marketplace Limited, Jacob stated that, “Ndigbo-2035 was built on the Integrated Impact Enterprise (IIE) model, a pioneering framework that embeds sustainable development into private sector-led commercial activities.
“This approach unites businesses, development communities, and local stakeholders in a self-sustaining ecosystem, fostering wealth creation, community empowerment and environmental resilience.
“Additionally, the IIE model bridges the rural-urban divide by equitably distributing investments, ensuring they are not solely concentrated in urban areas but foster balanced regional growth.
“Even if all government structures function at 100 percent utilisation, there remains a significant need for private sector programs and investments to bridge the development deficit across the South East.”
Jacob extended the group’s gratitude to key leaders, including the president, saying: “We are deeply grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for signing the South East Development Commission (SEDC) bill into law, a landmark decision that paves the way for regional growth. We equally commend Senator Orji Uzo Kalu, Senate Committee Chairman of the SEDC, for his unwavering support and dedication to the commission’s success.
“Senator Kalu’s tireless efforts in championing development across the South East – evidenced by his many private and public initiatives, investments, human capital and sports development, and his advocacy for increased security and economic investment – reflect his deep commitment to uplifting communities and fostering progress throughout the region.”
The coalition, which believes that Ndigbo-2035 can make Southeast Nigeria a beacon of hope for Africa by 2035, is inviting partners, investors and stakeholders to join the “transformative journey in redefining Igboland’s future through identity, culture, capital and innovation.”