The leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has called for stronger collaboration with the Abia State Government to advance the unity, cultural renaissance and socio-economic development of the Igbo nation.
This formed the focus of a courtesy visit by the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation to the Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, at his Nvosi country home in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
In a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Ezechi Chukwu, the delegation was led by the National Deputy President-General of the organisation, Okey Nwadinobi, who represented the President-General, John Azuta‑Mbata.
Ezechi said during the meeting, the Ohanaeze leadership briefed the governor on the programmes and reform agenda being pursued by the current National Executive Committee under Mbata’s leadership.
Responding, Governor Otti commended the Mbata-led leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo for what he described as purposeful leadership and dedication to the progress of the Igbo nation.
He noted that the organisation had demonstrated capacity and vision within its first year in office and assured the delegation of the continued support of the Abia State Government for initiatives aimed at strengthening the welfare and unity of Ndigbo.
The governor also said his administration would examine the issues raised during the meeting and explore areas of collaboration with the organisation.
Speaking earlier, Nwadinobi expressed appreciation to the governor for his support to Ohanaeze Ndigbo and for the role he played in the emergence of Senator Azuta-Mbata as President-General of the organisation.
He also commended Otti’s development initiatives in Abia State, particularly in infrastructure, healthcare and education.
“We commend Your Excellency for your developmental strides in Abia State, particularly in infrastructure, healthcare and education. Your administration has restored confidence and dignity among the people of the state,” Nwadinobi said.
The Ohanaeze leader also outlined key programmes currently being implemented by the organisation under Mbata’s leadership.
According to him, these initiatives include the establishment of professorial endowment chairs in seven universities across Igbo states aimed at preserving and promoting the Igbo language and cultural heritage.
Other initiatives include the development of a draft constitution approved by Imeobi, the Annual Igbo Adoration and Thanksgiving Day, and various peace and reconciliation initiatives designed to foster unity among Igbo communities both in Nigeria and in the diaspora.
The meeting was attended by members of the Abia State Executive Council, including the Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Caleb Ajagba; the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu; the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Uzor Nwachukwu; and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, among others.
Members of the expanded National Executive Committee of Ohanaeze Ndigbo also attended the meeting, including the Secretary-General, Emeka Sibeudu; national vice presidents-general and presidents of the organisation from the seven Igbo-speaking states.
The Vice President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo representing Enugu State, Fred Eze, delivered the vote of thanks on behalf of the delegation.
The organisation said the visit forms part of its ongoing engagement with leaders and stakeholders across the country aimed at strengthening unity, promoting cultural renaissance and advancing the socio-economic development of the Igbo nation.
