Governor of Anambra State, Chukwuma Soludo, has called for renewed dialogue and collaboration to build a liveable and prosperous homeland for the Igbo nation.
Speaking in Awka on Monday at the 2025 World Igbo Day celebration organised by Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Soludo urged Ndigbo to reflect on their past and chart a collective path forward, stressing that they hold a significant stake in Nigeria’s unity and future.
“We must begin the search for a new Igbo land. The time has come for us to have an honest conversation and collaboration with both regional and international blocs about our future,” Soludo said.
BSGISTNEWS reports that the governor commended Ohanaeze for setting aside September 29 to honour those who lost their lives in the struggle for nationhood, describing it as a solemn step towards healing. He, however, warned against warmongering, noting that only those who had never witnessed war would wish it upon a people.
“For those craving war, it is because they never saw one. Those who truly saw war will never pray for such to befall Igbo land, Nigeria, or any nation,” he said.
Soludo also tasked Ohanaeze to take a stronger stance against insecurity and lead a moral rebirth across the South-East, anchored on integrity, hard work, and enterprise. He further appealed to President Bola Tinubu to release Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), so he can participate in discussions about the future of the Igbo nation.
The Chairman of the occasion, Senator Ned Nwoko (APC–Delta North), called on Ndigbo to support the creation of Anioma State as the sixth state in the South-East, while also urging the protection of Igbo culture and traditions.
In his remarks, Senator John Mbata, President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo (represented by his deputy, Mr. Okey Nwadinobi), stressed the need for unity, economic progress, and active contribution to a united Nigeria.
“Let us do what is right and be our brother’s keeper. We do not want a desolate Igbo land; we want an Igbo land that will be a choice destination in Nigeria,” Mbata said.
Highlights of the event included the conferment of a chieftaincy title, Oku Nyelu Ife Ndigbo, on Soludo, as well as cultural displays by masquerades and performance groups.
