The newly appointed President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Nze Ozichukwu Fidelis Chukwu, has made a significant first statement just 48 hours after taking office, urging Igbos to “ensure that only quality men and women with outstanding pedigree are elected to the National Executive Committee (NEC) of Ohanaeze Ndigbo on January 10, 2025.”
At his inaugural meeting with the NEC on Sunday, December 15, 2024, held at the National Secretariat, No 7 Park Avenue, Enugu, Nze Ozichukwu articulated that the Igbo are among Africa’s leading communities. He emphasised that to sustain this trajectory, Ohanaeze Ndigbo must be strengthened by appointing officers of exceptional and accomplished qualities.
He remarked that the effectiveness and viability of any organisation or government depend on a robust leadership recruitment process. He expressed his satisfaction that the Imeobi Ohanaeze has resolved to establish a screening committee to ensure that the incoming NEC consists of individuals with sound education, integrity, vision, a strong understanding of Igbo cultural and ethical values, innovativeness, and collaborative corporate relations, among other qualities.
In a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Dr Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia, the Igbo leader fondly recalled the unity of the Igbo during Dr M. I. Okpara’s regime, which propelled them to become one of the most educated ethnic groups in Africa. He noted that during that period, town unions facilitated the establishment of schools, churches, markets, hospitals, and other social amenities, while farm settlements provided essential agricultural techniques for enhanced farming. This resulted in food sufficiency in Igbo land. However, he lamented that subsequent Igbo leaders have seemingly neglected these responsibilities. He informed the NEC that it was the synergy of internal peace, unity, and food security, coupled with credible and accountable governance, that registered Eastern Nigeria as one of the fastest-growing economies globally under Okpara.
Nze Chukwu lamented that at present, all forms of agricultural products, from yams and beans to tomatoes and livestock, are predominantly sourced from the North.
He expressed his concern that a trip from Enugu to Onitsha, just 100km apart, now takes about four hours due to the numerous money-extorting checkpoints set up by the Army, Police, Road Safety, Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO), and Community Vigilantes.
Moreover, he noted that while Harvard in the USA has taken an interest in the Igbo’s successes in areas like Igba Boy and Igba oso ahia, the current generation of Igbos appears to be losing touch with this rich heritage. He attributed part of the youth restiveness to the abandonment of the vital values that the Igbo are known for, advocating that youth empowerment should be prioritised in the Ohanaeze policy framework.
The Igbo leader acknowledged the existential threats facing the Igbo community from various fronts but assured that with effective leadership, the Igbo can become the envy of Africa. He cited the audacity, resilience, inventiveness, and expansive nature of regions like Bavaria, Scotland, California, and Catalonia, which have looked beyond their borders to achieve sustainable economic growth.
Chukwu pointed out that one indication of backwardness is the complacent attitude towards the very gifts that God has already bestowed upon the community.
He regrettably noted that excessive responsibilities beyond the scope of Ohanaeze Ndigbo are often ascribed to the organisation, despite lacking the necessary resources to meet these expectations.
He outlined the pressing moral obligation on the federal government regarding the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, stressing that there is no adequate justification for his prolonged detention by state security agencies. Chukwu stated his intention to collaborate with other Igbo leaders in government to collectively advocate for Kanu’s release.
He assured the NEC that he would develop a blueprint enabling Ohanaeze not only to complement the state’s goodwill but also to effectively fulfil its diverse functions and address challenges as they arise.
Though aware that his tenure is limited, Chukwu pledged to leave a lasting legacy.
In preparation for the upcoming election, Chukwu instructed state representatives on the NEC to nominate three candidates each for the election committee, emphasising that these individuals must possess integrity and character. Additional candidates will be sourced from the affiliate bodies of Ohanaeze and civil society. He encouraged the NEC to strengthen collaboration with Town Unions, Market Associations, and Diaspora communities.
The President General commended Ambassador Okey Emuchay, MFR for his carriage, diplomatic finesse, and administrative competence throughout the periods of catastrophe in Ohanaeze. He thanked the members of NEC for their sacrifice and ability to manage their internal differences for Ohanaeze to move forward.
Members expressed immense delight that the good people of Imo State presented a man with a sterling profile in academics, public and community service, national and global exposure, transparency, and morals. Members therefore assured the President General of their unalloyed support and maximum cooperation.
