Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Elects New Leadership to steer it’s Affairs

By Iyojo Ameh

The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, the foremost socio-cultural organization representing the Igbo people of Nigeria, has elected a new executive leadership to steer its affairs. The national elections, held at the Old Government Lodge on Abakiliki Road, Enugu, were concluded peacefully today, January 10, 2025.

Senator Azubuike Mbata emerged as the new President General, succeeding Nze Ozichukwu. His election signals a fresh chapter for the organization, with a renewed focus on unity, progress, and development across the Igbo-speaking states.

The full list of the newly elected national executives is as follows:
President General: Senator Azubuike Mbata, Deputy President General: Okey Nwadinobi, Secretary General: Engr. Emeka Sibeudu, Deputy Secretary General: Dan Okenyi, Vice President General: Omeife Jideofor, Vice President General: Chief John Duru and Vice President General: Dr. Ngozi Oleiime, Vice President General: Dr. Peter Mbam and Vice President General: Prof. Fred Eze.
Others are: National Treasurer: Dr. Peter Chidera Aneke, Assistant National Treasurer: Nnanna Nwakwo, National Financial Secretary: Charles Kalu Nkata, Assistant National Financial Secretary: Jane Nwanga, National Publicity Secretary: Dr. Ezechukwu Ezec, Assistant National Publicity Secretary: Bismarck Orji, National Legal Adviser: Barr. Okeagu Ogada and Assistant National Legal Adviser: Barr. Chizoba Iheka.

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 Azubuike 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 vigor 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.