• NiDCOM, COSEYL, others hail declaration of Igbo Day in US
From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
The creativity, industry, versatility and ubiquity of the Igbo have continued to receive acclaim across the globe. Recently, in landmark recognition of cultural diversity and immigrant contributions, State of North Carolina, USA, officially proclaimed June 14, 2025, as Igbo Day.
The proclamation honoured the Igbo people of Nigeria for their rich cultural heritage and impactful presence in the state. Signed by Governor Josh Stein, he praised the Igbo people’s over five-decade presence in North Carolina and their enduring commitment to unity, civic engagement and public service: “Igbo in North Carolina are encouraged to connect, celebrate, and support one another, fostering a strong sense of unity, bonding and belonging.”
The announcement also highlighted the role of the Igbo Day Festival Organisation, a nonprofit formed in 2022, which has become a central hub for promoting Igbo culture, art, music and values to both the Igbo diaspora and the broader North Carolinian public.
According to the proclamation, the Igbo community has shown remarkable dedication to community service, including volunteering in schools, women’s shelters, hospitals, and food pantries. They have also made significant strides in education, law, medicine, entrepreneurship, IT and public service, cementing their position as valuable contributors to both state and national development.
Stein noted that the recognition of Igbo Day reflects North Carolina’s commitment to cultural inclusion and celebrates the vital role of the Igbo diaspora in enriching the social and economic fabric of American society.
Many Nigerians and groups including the Igbo community in North Carolina hailed the recognition as a historic moment, a platform for fostering cultural pride, generational legacy and stronger civic participation among Igbo in the U.S.
Chairman, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described the proclamation as a reflection of the patriotic and deep cultural impact of Ndigbo in the United States. In a statement by NiDCOM’s Head of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Dabiri-Erewa said it was “a welcome development.”
She said such recognition “deserves accolade” for the governor, for acknowledging the contributions of the Igbo community both within and beyond the state. She applauded the Igbo community for being good ambassadors of Nigeria in North Carolina.
She urged other Nigerians living abroad, as individuals or groups, to always contribute their quota to their immediate communities and to reflect the true patriotic spirit of Nigerians, regardless of their geopolitical origins.
With this proclamation, North Carolina joins other states in honouring its growing African diaspora and the diverse heritage that strengthens its society.
Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL) extolled the Governor of North Carolina for recognising the worth of the Igbo. Its President General, Goodluck Ibem, said the proclamation highlighted a legacy of unity, pride, and excellence, which the Igbo represent: “The community’s impact, as highlighted by Governor Stein, is evident in their charitable initiatives, cultural performances, and leadership in various sectors that uplift society as a whole.
“COSEYL recognises the efforts of the Igbo Day Festival Organisation and the inaugural Igbo Day Festival held in 2022, which demonstrated a commitment to cultural education and unity amongst Igbo families. We are excited to see the vibrant celebrations planned for June 14, 2025, and encourage all citizens of North Carolina to participate in the observance of Igbo Day, fostering deeper connections and appreciation for the diverse heritage that our state embodies.
“We applaud Governor Stein for his leadership in promoting inclusivity and cultural recognition for all communities in North Carolina. We are immensely proud of the achievements of the Igbo people and are committed to supporting and amplifying their contributions in every field.
“Together, let us celebrate our heritage, build bridges of understanding and inspire future generations to embrace their identity and cultural pride.”
Executive Director, Oke Ndigbo (Igbo Rights Agenda), Dr. Declan Okenkwa, said the recognition would serve as a major boost to many other Igbo communities to continue to strive for excellence and industry: “They are our good ambassadors. The Igbo in diaspora are really doing well; and many at times, they are critical to developing their host communities.”