January 01, (THEWILL) – January 01, (THEWILL) – The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has urged Nigerians to embrace unity and dialogue to secure the nation’s future and foster progress under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.
This was contained in a New Year message issued in Abakaliki by the Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and made available to journalists.
In the statement, Isiguzoro emphasized the need for collective efforts to address Nigeria’s enduring challenges, lauding President Tinubu’s restructuring efforts, including the establishment of Six Geopolitical Zonal Development Commissions.
He described the initiative as a significant step toward addressing the country’s historical imbalances but noted that its success would depend on forthcoming policies, particularly the anticipated 2025 National Population Census.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo strongly advocates for the inclusion of ethnicity and religion as key categories in the census exercise. This is crucial for generating accurate demographic data that truly represents the diverse ethnicities in Nigeria, including the Igbo population across all 774 local government areas,” Isiguzoro stated.
He warned against the pitfalls of previous census exercises, which were marred by fraudulent data and distortions of ethnic representation, urging the Federal Government to ensure transparency and fairness to prevent disputes arising from inaccurate demographic portrayals.
On economic development, the group called on Igbo business leaders to redirect their investments to the Southeast to revitalize local economies and create an international economic hub. Isiguzoro urged investors to leverage the Tinubu administration’s proposed tax reforms and prioritise developments in Igbo land over regions with histories of hostility towards Igbo enterprises.
“We appeal to Igbo entrepreneurs to relocate their investments, especially from the North and Southwest, back to our homeland. This is a necessary step to strengthen our local economies and build resilience in the Igbo nation,” he said.
Ohanaeze also reiterated its call for the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, stressing the broader implications of his case for justice and equity.
Isiguzoro pledged the group’s commitment to strategic negotiations with Southeast governors and trusted allies to secure Kanu’s release in 2025, despite concerns about his influence upon freedom.
The organisation further condemned attempts by some Southeast governors to impose a President-General from outside Rivers State, particularly from Egbema, Imo State. Such political interference, Isiguzoro said, undermines the core values and identity of the Igbo people.
“Ohanaeze will resist any imposition that violates our constitution or diminishes the rightful claims of indigenous Igbos in Rivers State. We remain committed to upholding fairness and protecting the heritage of our people,” he asserted.
In conclusion, Isiguzoro urged Nigerians to work towards unity, resilience, and constructive dialogue in the New Year.
He expressed optimism that a stronger, more inclusive Nigeria could be built through collective efforts and mutual respect among all ethnic groups.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo extends heartfelt New Year wishes to all Nigerians. May 2025 bring hope, peace, and collaborative success for us all,” he added.
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