In a recognition of their contributions to the Igbo community and Nigeria at large, three notable figures have been awarded the title of Igbo Leader of the Year 2024 by the Nigeria National News Media (NN News Media).
Peter Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State and the Labour Party’s presidential candidate during the 2023 elections, has been acknowledged for his unwavering dedication to the welfare of Ndi-Igbo and Nigeria. His efforts in promoting unity and development have earned him this prestigious accolade.
Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, was also recognized as an Igbo Leader of the Year 2024. Known for his tireless efforts to foster unity among Ndi-Igbo worldwide, Nwoko has been a strong advocate for the inclusion of the Anioma people as the sixth state in the South-East region. His campaigns across nine local government areas in Delta State have galvanized the Igbo-speaking Anioma people, reinforcing their cultural and historical ties with the Igbo nation.
Similarly, Barrister Uche Okwukwu, former General Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, was celebrated as an Igbo Leader of the Year 2024. Okwukwu, who is vying for the position of Ohanaeze President General—a role currently zoned to Rivers State—has emerged as a unifying figure in Igbo socio-political affairs. Despite ongoing divisions among various Igbo groups, Okwukwu has consistently championed unity through advocacy and dialogue.
In his address, Okwukwu emphasized the shared cultural and historical ties of his Ikwerre people with the Igbo nation, dismissing claims of affinity with the Bini kingdom as baseless. He presented compelling historical and cultural evidence to reinforce the timeless connection between the Ikwerre and the broader Igbo community.
These awards highlight the tireless efforts of these leaders in advancing the unity, identity, and progress of Ndi-Igbo in Nigeria and beyond.
