The President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Nze Ozichukwu Fidelis Chukwu, has called on the Igbo people to prioritize electing men and women of exceptional pedigree to the National Executive Committee (NEC) during the upcoming elections slated for January 10, 2025. Chukwu stressed that the future of the Igbo people depends on strong, visionary leadership within the Ohanaeze Ndigbo organization.
Addressing members of the NEC during his inaugural meeting at the National Secretariat on No. 7 Park Avenue, Enugu, Chukwu underscored the importance of leadership recruitment in sustaining the Igbo’s role as a leading force in Africa. He highlighted that only leaders with integrity, education, cultural knowledge, and a collaborative spirit can drive the progress needed to strengthen the organization.
In a statement issued by Ohanaeze’s spokesperson, Alex Ogbonnia, on Tuesday, Chukwu praised the decision by Imeobi Ohanaeze to establish a screening committee to vet candidates for the NEC. This committee will ensure that only candidates with qualities such as sound education, innovative thinking, and adherence to Igbo cultural and ethical values are considered.
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Reflecting on the golden era of Igbo unity under Dr. M.I. Okpara, Chukwu reminisced about the remarkable achievements that made Eastern Nigeria one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. During Okpara’s regime, communities thrived through organized town unions that built schools, churches, markets, hospitals, and other social facilities. Farm settlements introduced advanced agricultural techniques, ensuring food sufficiency in the region.
However, Chukwu expressed regret that subsequent leaders failed to uphold these achievements, leading to setbacks in Igbo unity and development. He emphasized that the combination of internal peace, food security, and accountable governance under Okpara set a benchmark for progress and urged the Igbo to replicate such leadership in today’s era.
Chukwu’s call for credible and accomplished leadership resonates as a critical step toward revitalizing Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s mission and sustaining the Igbo’s legacy as a beacon of progress and unity in Africa. With the January 2025 NEC elections on the horizon, the stakes are high, and the choices made will undoubtedly shape the future of the Igbo nation.
