Governor Alex Otti has urged Ndigbo to strengthen bonds of unity, foster greater cooperation and prioritize collective interests above individual differences to build more prosperous future.
Otti made call on Tuesday in Umuahia at 2026 World Igbo Day celebration hosted by Abia State.
The Governor noted future of Ndigbo depends on ability to work together despite differences in opinion.
“May I also emphasise that unity does not mean unanimity of opinion on every issue, but a consciousness that our individual desires cannot be superior to aspirations of majority,” Otti said.
“Agreed that it is fair to allow individuals to decide how they want to function, there is however no gain in plotting to undermine others just because you disagree with them. Yes, we may actually not be on same page on a number of issues, including political and economic concerns, but we have to appreciate that none of us will be here forever.”
He said theme of celebration, “Njiko Ka” — Unity is Supreme, was timely reminder of need for collective sacrifice, urging Ndigbo to replace disunity, discord and acrimony with peace, understanding and sincerity of intention.
Otti urged Ndigbo to think beyond immediate political and economic interests and consider impact of decisions on future generations, tasking them to promote dialogue, consensus-building and cooperation on development programmes.
He stressed importance of education and intergenerational transfer of knowledge, citing omugwo, Igbo apprenticeship system and longstanding commitment to educating children as enduring traditions.
The Governor said education was crucial to preparing Ndigbo for opportunities of global economy, citing Abia’s free and compulsory education policy.
He urged parents and leaders to tackle substance abuse and other social vices while instilling values of excellence, patience, knowledge and resilience in young people.
He also called for collective action against violence and crime.
In his welcome address, President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, underscored importance of unity as encapsulated in theme.
Azuta-Mbata said Ndigbo across Nigeria and world have distinguished themselves through outstanding contributions to commerce, industry, science, medicine, academia and technology.
He urged young people to recognise they were not merely future of Ndigbo, but custodians of present and architects of future, charging them to preserve and advance collective heritage.
The Ohanaeze leader expressed appreciation to Otti for commitment to advancement of Alaigbo, describing him as a true ambassador of Igbo people.
In his opening remarks, Chairman of occasion, Senator Ike Nwachukwu, said the event is an opportunity for Ndigbo to reflect on their journey as a people and responsibilities owed to present and future generations.
Nwachukwu said Ndigbo have collective responsibility to build a stronger, more united and prosperous society that would provide better inheritance for generations yet unborn.
He described the theme “Njiko Ka” as simple but profound truth that united people achieve much more when they work together towards common purpose.
He acknowledged the contributions of prominent Igbo sons and daughters, living and deceased, who through various fields brought honour to Igbo people.
The Eagle News reports that the event featured goodwill messages and account by Ohanaeze delegates from South-East states who toured various project sites executed by Otti across three senatorial zones, as well as interdenominational church service.
Earlier, Governor Otti alongside Deputy President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Prince Okey Nwadinobi, Prof. Uche Nnamdi Azikiwe, among other Igbo leaders, laid wreaths at Aguiyi Ironsi Cenotaph in honour of distinguished Igbo heroes and heroines.(The Eagle News)
