By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Oyo State chapter, held its first General Assembly meeting for 2026 in Ibadan, bringing together members of the Igbo community across the state to discuss growth, strengthen its policies, and lay new foundations for the development of the association.
The meeting, held at the Iwo Road Traders’ Association Hall, Olagoke Alao Street, beside Raji Rasak House, Abayomi, Iwo Road, Ibadan, focused on promoting unity, preserving Igbo culture, and advocating for the interests of Igbo citizens in the region.
Present at the event, the President of the association, Umeh Okechukwu Nwabunike, stated that the essence of the meeting was to keep the Igbo community informed about the association’s past activities, achievements so far, and future projections, while also carrying Igbo residents in the state along on the need to remain well informed.
He said, “When people are well informed, they will understand the state of things and where we are heading towards. Our reason for gathering today is to let our people know exactly what has gone on in the past based on our achievements and projections for the future and, most importantly, the state of the nation.”
He also added that the association’s agenda focuses on promoting unity among the Igbo community, compiling data on Igbo people in the state, and organising a summit that will bring intellectuals together to develop systems capable of sustaining the association’s policies.
On the part of politics ahead of the 2027 elections, the Women Leader of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Ijeoma Uchendu, called on women of the Igbo community to come together to share ideas, build capacity, and move forward in unity, while also contributing to the development of the Igbo community and beyond.
She added that the administration of Engineer Seyi Makinde has supported the growth of the association, and expressed hope that the next governor of Oyo State will continue to build on the foundation and progress established under his leadership.
The Youth Leader of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Barrister Remigius Chima Onah, emphasized that the progress and wellbeing of the Igbo community in Oyo State remains a core priority of the association.
He urged Igbo youths to stay actively engaged in meaningful and constructive activities that promote development, while strongly advising them to avoid any form of violence or actions that could disrupt peace in the state. He also commended the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde for creating a stable and business-friendly environment that has enabled Igbo entrepreneurs to thrive and carry out their activities with ease.
Furthermore, he stressed the importance of civic responsibility, encouraging young people to obtain their Permanent Voter’s Cards and actively participate in the upcoming elections. According to him, active political participation is vital for shaping leadership and driving sustainable national development.
The meeting recorded the presence of delegates, academicians, key stakeholders, market leaders, town union representatives, and various affiliated groups.
