As we usher in the New Year, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has called on Nigerians to embrace a future of unity, progress, and collective aspirations.
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, through its Secretary General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, stated this while extending heartfelt New Year greetings to all Nigerians.
According to Isiguzoro, in this moment of reflection and renewed hope under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it is imperative that Nigerians engage in a frank and constructive dialogue regarding their shared aspirations and enduring challenges as a nation.
He then commended the efforts of President Ahmed Tinubu in initiating a significant restructuring of Nigeria through the establishment of the Six Geopolitical Zonal Development Commissions.
Isiguzoro stated that the initiative represents a crucial acknowledgement of the diverse tapestry of the nation and also addresses historic imbalances among various ethnic groups.
“We assert that the true realisation of these noble aspirations will hinge on forthcoming policies, particularly with regard to the eagerly anticipated 2025 National Population Census.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo strongly emphasises the necessity of including ethnicity and religion as integral categories in the census exercise. Such inclusivity is not merely a statistical formality; it is essential for generating accurate demographic data that reflects the true representation of the Igbo population and other diverse ethnicities scattered across all 774 local government areas in Nigeria. The painful memories of previous National Population Census exercises, marred by fraudulent representations and distortions of ethnic numerical data, must not be repeated. It is, therefore, quintessential that the Federal Government adopts proactive measures to ensure that the 2025 Census faithfully reflects the rich diversity of our nation, thereby minimising potential disputes arising from disproportionate demographic portrayals.
“In embracing economic opportunities, we urge our Igbo brethren to recognise and leverage the Tinubu administration’s proposed Tax Reform Bills. This initiative presents a golden opportunity to redirect Igbo investments back to our homeland—a necessary pivot from the historical neglect that saw our investments languish in other regions. We earnestly call upon Igbo investors and business leaders, as part of their New Year resolutions, to champion the establishment of an international economic hub in Igbo Land by relocating investments, especially from the North and Southwest, back to our ancestral territory. This endeavour is not merely aspirational; it is an urgent call to action aimed at revitalising our local economies and fostering sustainable growth within the Igbo Nation. The time has come for our community to prioritise investments that cultivate our own economic resilience while decisively ceasing further investments in regions historically hostile to our enterprises, especially those fraught with unlawful demolitions and the regrettable destruction of Igbo businesses.
“As we navigate these pressing economic and social issues, Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains steadfast in our commitment to advocate for the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. We recognise the complexities accompanying his situation, including the concerns expressed by some Southeast Governors and political elites regarding his popularity and potential actions upon release. Nonetheless, we affirm our resolve to engage with trusted allies and pursue strategic negotiations aimed at ensuring his freedom in 2025. The resolution of this matter is not merely a personal issue; it holds broader implications for justice, equity, and the moral direction of our collective struggle.
“Furthermore, we assert the necessity for a transparent and fair electoral process within Ohanaeze Ndigbo. Recent attempts by specific Southeast Governors to impose a President General from outside Rivers State—particularly from Egbema, Imo State—threaten to undermine the very essence of Igbo identity and core values. Such political manoeuvrings that seek to diminish the rightful claims of indigenous Igbos of Rivers State are untenable. We will vigorously resist any imposition that contravenes the Constitution of Ohanaeze and undermines the heritage and aspirations of our people.
In conclusion, as we stride fearlessly into this New Year, let us collectively work towards unity, resilience, and constructive dialogue. We vehemently believe that the path to a stronger Nigeria hinges on our collective ability to confront our shared histories with integrity and build a future that acknowledges and respects the contributions of all ethnic groups. Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains unwavering in its dedication to this worthy cause.
We wish all Igbos and Nigerians a prosperous New Year, brimful of hope, peace, and collaborative success.”
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