Group champions rebirth of Igbo spirit, decries mass exodus from Igboland
Igbo Group Launches Initiative to Promote Cultural Unity and Excellence
ENUGWU AGULERI, Anambra State — The Igbochukwu Foundation has officially inaugurated its Interim National Executive Council, aiming to revitalize the Igbo spirit through excellence, hard work, and unity. The ceremony was held over the weekend at Obu Gad in Enugwu Aguleri, Anambra East Local Government Area.
Dr. Chike Obidigbo, the convener of the foundation and a noted elder statesman, addressed attendees, emphasizing the group’s commitment to fostering unity among the Igbo people amid perceived existential threats. He cited challenges stemming from both federal government policies and internal dynamics that have contributed to a significant outflow of people from the Igbo heartland.
“The Igbochukwu Foundation represents a new effort to rekindle the Igbo spirit of excellence, grounded in strong moral principles and faith in God,” Obidigbo said during his speech.
He remarked on the historical context of Igbo marginalization, noting that discriminatory policies against the Igbo have intensified since Nigeria’s independence in 1960 and worsened following the Nigerian Civil War. This discrimination, he argued, has led to a cultural retreat as many Igbos seek acceptance in external cultures.
Obidigbo expressed concern that without decisive action, the identity of the Igbo people may face extinction. He urged members of the Igbo community to shift from lamentation to action, convening the foundation as a platform for constructive dialogue about the future of the Igbo nation.
He highlighted the need for a resurgence in cultural pride, stating that the Igbochukwu Foundation aims to reverse negative socio-cultural trends by promoting value reorientation and fostering thought leadership within the Igbo community.
The event culminated in the inauguration of the Interim National Executive Council, with His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. R. C. Opoko, JP, named as the President General. In his acceptance speech, Opoko outlined the vision of the foundation, focusing on the peaceful and diligent pursuit of the interests of the Igbo people, rooted in their culture and the principles of the Supreme Being, known as Chukwu Okike Abiama.
