The South-East Council of Traditional Rulers (SECTR) has inducted 19 Igbo leaders from Nigeria and the diaspora into the revered office of Onyendu Ndigbo, as part of efforts to promote unity, preserve Igbo cultural values and strengthen leadership among Igbo communities abroad.
The induction ceremony was held at the Secretariat of the Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers in Owerri, where the newly recognised leaders received certificates of recognition as cultural ambassadors and custodians of Igbo heritage in their respective communities.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Imo State and South-East Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Eze Dr. E.C. Okeke (CFR), urged the inductees to uphold the highest standards of integrity, accountability and selfless service in the discharge of their responsibilities.
He stressed that the title comes with a responsibility to promote peace, unity and the welfare of Igbo people in the diaspora while maintaining zero tolerance for corruption and poor leadership.
The traditional ruler commended the Committee on the Regularisation of Igbo Diaspora Traditional Title and Leadership (CRIDTTL), led by Chief Charles Odunukwe, for conducting a transparent screening process to identify credible leaders worthy of the honour.
Eze Okeke also appreciated Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, led by Senator John Azuta Mbata, and the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their continued support in promoting and protecting the interests of Ndigbo living abroad.
The newly inducted leaders represent Igbo communities in Japan, Ivory Coast, the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa State and several districts within Abuja, where they are expected to serve as recognised representatives of the Igbo people.
Speaking on the significance of the exercise, Chairman of CRIDTTL, Chief Charles Odunukwe, said the second batch of inductions builds on the success of the inaugural ceremony held in May 2026 and forms part of efforts to address issues arising from unregulated traditional titles and conflicting leadership claims among Igbo communities in the diaspora.
He explained that all inductees underwent a rigorous screening process based on character, community service and commitment to the welfare of Ndigbo, warning that the recognition could be withdrawn if any recipient is found wanting.
Also speaking, the committee’s Secretary, Prince Ubochi Ubochi, described the induction as a major step towards building a more organised, credible and globally respected leadership structure for Igbo communities in the diaspora.
The South-East Council of Traditional Rulers expressed optimism that the initiative would foster greater unity, preserve Igbo cultural identity and strengthen relationships between diaspora communities and their ancestral homeland.
