Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the foremost Igbo socio-cultural organization, has announced plans to convene a retreat aimed at unlocking the potential of the Southeast for its progressive development.
Dr. Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia, the spokesperson for Ohanaeze Ndigbo, revealed this in a recent statement, outlining the significance of the event against the backdrop of current national circumstances affecting the Igbo community.
Scheduled for Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at the Old Government Lodge on Abakiliki Road, GRA, Enugu, the retreat will be chaired by Admiral Allison Amaechina Madueke, a former military governor of the Old Anambra and Old Imo States, as well as a former Chief of Naval Staff of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
According to Dr. Ogbonnia, the imperative for such a gathering stems from the pressing need to address the challenges and opportunities facing the Igbo people within Nigeria.
The retreat, themed “Ako Bu Ije” (which translates to “Work is the Journey”), underscores Ohanaeze’s commitment to elevating the status of the Igbo community by leveraging its inherent talents and resources for the benefit of the region and the nation as a whole.
Chief Engr. Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, MFR; OFR; CFR; FNICE; FNSE; FNIST; KSC, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, emphasized the urgency of revitalizing Igbo values and virtues, lamenting their gradual erosion over time. He cited historical examples of Igbo resourcefulness and resilience, highlighting the need to reignite these qualities for contemporary development challenges.
To facilitate tangible outcomes, various committees have been established under the leadership of notable figures. These committees include the Education Trust Fund, Youth Employment and Skill Acquisition, Business Leaders, Culture and Tradition, Reconciliation and Peace Building, and Diaspora Affairs.
Distinguished individuals such as Professor Chinedu Nebo, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, Senator Chris Ngige, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, and Dr. Sam Obaji will spearhead these committees, each focusing on critical areas essential for holistic development.
The retreat program will feature presentations by renowned scholars and experts. Topics will range from technological innovation and entrepreneurship to agricultural development, healthcare, and the preservation of traditional values as a solution to contemporary security challenges.
The event is expected to draw high-profile attendees, including Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, Professor Charles Soludo, Chief Alex Otti, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, along with Igbo senators, members of the House of Representatives, and other dignitaries.
With a collaborative effort aimed at harnessing the Southeast’s potential, Ohanaeze Ndigbo endeavors to chart a course towards sustainable development and prosperity for the Igbo people and Nigeria at large.
