The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has called on Ndigbo to prioritize the completion of federal infrastructure projects in the South-east. This call comes amid the ongoing disagreement between former Anambra state governor, Peter Obi, and Minister of Works, David Umahi, over the 2027 presidential aspiration. Ohanaeze emphasized that the collective interests of Ndigbo should be placed above political differences.
In a statement signed by its Deputy President General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Acting Secretary General, Prof. Chibuikeya Achoakawa, Ohanaeze highlighted the importance of the Igbo philosophy of “Nkemjika”. This philosophy emphasizes valuing what is within reach while patiently pursuing what remains beyond immediate grasp. The organisation believes that while the aspiration to produce Nigeria’s first Executive President of Igbo extraction is legitimate, it should not be prioritized over tangible infrastructure that could transform the region immediately.
Completed federal highways and bridges would have a significant impact on the region, benefiting traders, farmers, manufacturers, transporters, and families. These projects would reduce travel time, lower logistics costs, improve commerce, and strengthen economic connectivity across the South-east. Ohanaeze therefore urged Umahi, as Minister of Works, to ensure the completion of federal road and bridge projects in the Southeast.
The organisation emphasized the need for contractors to be held accountable, project timelines respected, and construction standards maintained. Ohanaeze acknowledged Obi’s contributions to South-east political history and Umahi’s role as a former governor and current Minister of Works. The organisation urged both men to demonstrate statesmanship and recognize that the interests of millions of ordinary Ndigbo were greater than the political fortunes of any individual.
Ohanaeze also called on Ndigbo to use the period leading to 2031 to consolidate infrastructure, strengthen the regional economy, build political institutions, and cultivate alliances across Nigeria. The organisation argued that the Igbo presidential project should be approached as a generational national campaign rather than one tied solely to the 2027 election. This approach would ensure a broader national consensus and a more sustainable outcome.
The organisation's position is guided by the need to balance short-term and long-term goals. While the 2027 presidential aspiration is an important objective, it should not overshadow the need for immediate infrastructure development. By prioritizing infrastructure, Ndigbo can create a solid foundation for economic growth and development.
Ultimately, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide is urging Ndigbo to adopt a pragmatic approach to achieving its goals. By focusing on infrastructure development and adopting a long-term perspective, the organisation believes that Ndigbo can make significant progress and create a brighter future for its people.
Key points
- Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide urges Ndigbo to prioritize infrastructure development over the 2027 presidential aspiration.
- The organisation emphasizes the importance of completing federal infrastructure projects in the South-east to transform the region immediately.
- Ohanaeze calls on Ndigbo to adopt a generational national campaign approach to the Igbo presidential project.
