Efforts to unify the Igbo-speaking people of Nigeria are gaining momentum as distinguished scholars and thought leaders including Professors Timothy Nwala and Patrick Utomi are set to convene this weekend in Asaba, Delta State, for a groundbreaking summit.
The two-day event, themed “Igbo-Bu-Ofu” (Igbo is One), will take place on Friday and Saturday, August 29–30, 2025, at Jace Darl Hotel in Okpanam City, within the Asaba metropolis. It is being organized by the Igbo Unification Movement, in collaboration with the Ndi N’asu Bia Socio-Cultural Organisation.
In a statement signed by Chief Cosmas Agada, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), and Kingsley Kainebi, Conference Coordinator, the organisers emphasized the conference’s core objective: uniting all Igbo-speaking people across Nigeria under a shared identity.
“Through this conference, tagged ‘Ogbako-Igbo Zara Igbo’ (Gathering of All Who Are Called Igbo), we aim to address identity crises among our people and reinforce the message that we are one,” the statement read.
Delegates from 13 states with Igbo-speaking populations are expected to attend. The invited speakers were chosen based on their proven commitment to Igbo cultural preservation and unity.
Keynote and Guest Speakers:
Prof. Timothy Nwala – Keynote speaker, regarded as the father of Contemporary African Philosophy and author of Igbo Philosophy.
Prof. Patrick Utomi – Renowned political economist and native of Igbuzo, Delta State.
Prof. Obasi Igwe – Political scientist from Ohafia, Abia State.
Prof. Florence Orabueze – Poet, writer, and former director of the Institute of African Studies.
Prof. Paul Opone – Historian and conflict resolution expert from Delta State University, Abraka.
Dr. Chidi Osuagwu – Biochemist with training in medicinal chemistry from the University of Houston.
Prof. Chinedu Enweoye – Urban planning and environmental management scholar from Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
These thought leaders will speak on various themes centered on resolving fragmentation among Igbo subgroups and reaffirming shared heritage through history, language, and culture.
The organisers described the summit as “the first of its kind”, expressing optimism that it will mark a turning point in Igbo unity and cultural reaffirmation.
They also extended an open invitation to all Igbo-speaking Nigerians to take part in this historic gathering and contribute to a future built on unity, identity, and cultural pride.
