Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has called on Ndigbo to strengthen unity, deepen cooperation and place collective interests above individual differences in order to build a more prosperous Alaigbo.
Otti made the call on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, in Umuahia during the 2026 World Igbo Day celebration hosted by Abia State, with the theme, “Njiko Ka,” which emphasises the importance of togetherness and unity.
The celebration brought together prominent Igbo leaders, government officials, academics, traditional and community stakeholders, as well as representatives of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide at the Michael Okpara Event Centre in Umuahia.
Governor Otti said the future of Ndigbo depended on their ability to work together despite differences in political, economic and other views.
He stressed that unity should not be interpreted as unanimity, noting that individuals could hold divergent opinions while still pursuing the common good.
“Unity does not mean unanimity of opinion on every issue, but a consciousness that our individual desires cannot be superior to the aspirations of the majority,” Otti said.
The governor urged Ndigbo to replace discord and acrimony with peace, understanding and sincerity of purpose, stressing that the theme of the celebration was a reminder of the need for collective sacrifice towards building a stronger future.
Otti also highlighted the importance of education and the transfer of knowledge between generations, citing the Igbo apprenticeship system and the community’s longstanding investment in education as important traditions.
He further called for collective efforts to tackle violence, crime and substance abuse, urging parents and community leaders to instil values of patience, excellence, knowledge and resilience in young people.
Speaking at the event, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, also stressed the importance of unity among Ndigbo.
Azuta-Mbata noted that Igbo people had made significant contributions to commerce, industry, science, medicine, academia, technology and other sectors, urging young people to see themselves as custodians of the present and builders of the future.
He commended Governor Otti and the Abia State Government for hosting the 2026 celebration and supporting the activities of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
The Chairman of the occasion, General Ike Nwachukwu, described the annual World Igbo Day celebration as an opportunity for Ndigbo to reflect on their history, achievements and responsibilities to future generations.
He said the theme, “Njiko Ka,” underscored the need for a united approach to addressing challenges and advancing the interests of the Igbo people.
As part of the celebration, Ohanaeze Ndigbo leaders and other participants toured selected projects executed by the Abia State Government across the state’s three senatorial zones.
The day’s activities also included the laying of wreaths at the Aguiyi-Ironsi Cenotaph in honour of Igbo heroes and heroines, as well as an interdenominational church service at the Michael Okpara Event Centre.
The 2026 World Igbo Day celebration concluded with goodwill messages, cultural activities and renewed calls for unity and collective action among Ndigbo at home and in the diaspora.
By Enitan Mudashiru | MUK TV News
