Foremost Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has elected new executives to steer its affairs, with John Azuta-Mbata, a former Senator, emerging as the new President General.
Azuta-Mbata emerged at the national elections which held at the Old Government Lodge on Abakiliki Road, Enugu, on Friday, January 10, 2025, succeeding Nze Ozichukwu Fidelis Chukwu, who sat on the saddle for just 27 days.
The election of Azuta-Mbata signals a fresh chapter for the organization, with a renewed focus on unity, progress, and development across the Igbo-speaking states.
Also elected as national executives are Okey Nwadinobi as Deputy President General, Engr. Emeka Sibeudu as Secretary General, Dan Okenyi (Deputy Secretary General), Omeife Jideofor (Vice President General), Chief John Duru (Vice President General), Dr. Ngozi Oleiime (Vice President General), Dr. Peter Mbam (Vice President General), and Prof. Fred Eze (Vice President General).
Others are Dr. Peter Chidera Aneke as National Treasurer, Nnanna Nwankwo as Assistant National Treasurer, Charles Kalu Nkata (National Financial Secretary), Jane Nwanga (Assistant National Financial Secretary), Dr. Ezechukwu Eze (National Publicity Secretary), Bismarck Orji (Assistant National Publicity Secretary), Barr. Okeagu Ogada (National Legal Adviser), and Barr. Chizoba Iheka (Assistant National Legal Adviser).
The election event drew notable figures from across Igboland. Governors from Abia, Anambra, Imo, and Enugu states were present, demonstrating strong support for the apex Igbo organization. The Ebonyi State Governor, who was unavoidably absent, was represented by his deputy. Their collective presence highlighted the importance of unity and collaboration among Igbo leaders.
The governors commended the peaceful and transparent nature of the elections and expressed their commitment to working closely with the newly elected executives to foster the cultural, economic, and political advancement of the Igbo people.
In his acceptance speech, the newly elected President General, Senator Azuta-Mbata, thanked the Igbo people for their trust and support. He pledged to prioritize unity, economic empowerment, and political inclusion, emphasizing that the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide would remain a vital voice for the Igbo nation at home and in the diaspora.
“The time for renewed vigour and collective action is now,” Mbata said. “We will work tirelessly to strengthen Igbo unity, promote our culture, and advocate for the rights and interests of our people wherever they may be.”
The elections, hailed as peaceful and democratic, are expected to usher in a productive era for the organization. The newly elected leadership aims to tackle key challenges facing the Igbo people, including socio-economic development, political representation, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide remains committed to its mission of promoting the well-being and unity of the Igbo people, with the new executives at the helm ready to advance the organization’s goals.
