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In a significant gathering in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Southwest convened to address pressing issues affecting the Igbo community in the region.
The meeting, held on January 23-24, 2026, brought together prominent leaders, stakeholders, and members of the Southwest Regional Directorate to discuss strategies for advancing the interests of the Igbo people.
A key outcome of the meeting was a resounding vote of confidence in Senator John Azuta Mbata, head of the National Executive Committee of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. Attendees praised his commitment to fostering unity and progress, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to tackle the challenges facing the Igbo community.
Chief Everest Ozonweke, Co-ordinator of Ohanaeze Southwest, highlighted the achievements of the National Executive Committee during its first year in office, as outlined in the report from the last Ime-obi meeting in Enugu. These include the ongoing construction of the Ohanaeze Secretariat, which is about 80% complete, the review of the Ohanaeze Worldwide constitution, and support for the development of Alaigbo, strategic stakeholders engagement at various National levels, alongside initiatives aimed at socio-economic development, cultural preservation, and political advocacy.
In this context, Chief Alex Ndubisi, President of Ohanaeze Ekiti State, moved a motion for a vote of confidence in Senator Mbata’s leadership. The motion was unanimously adopted, reflecting strong support from the attendees.
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The Coordinator urged members to remain steadfast in their commitment to the organization’s objectives, noting that collective action is vital for creating a brighter future for the Igbo community in the Southwest and Nigeria at large. The Southwest leadership expressed deep gratitude to Mr. Fisayo Ishola for his significant contributions and exemplary hospitality, which provided additional comfort for members during the meeting.
A major focus of the discussions was the necessity of strategic partnerships with government entities and our host communities in Southwest. Leaders stressed the importance of building strong relationships to promote mutual understanding and cooperation, thereby enhancing the socio-economic landscape and ensuring that the interests of the Igbo community align with those of their neighbors.
The meeting also featured discussions on upcoming events and projects designed to elevate the visibility and influence of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, with special emphasis on 31st January Igbo Adoration and Thanksgiving Day as proclaimed by Ohanaeze Worldwide and Igbo Clergy, the leadership unanimously agreed that the prayer session will be observed in all Ohanaeze Secretariat throughout the Southwest.
The leadership also appointed a seven-member Peace and Reconciliation Committee tasked with addressing the leadership crisis within Ohanaeze Ondo State. The committee is mandated to facilitate dialogue and foster genuine reconciliation between the two factions.
In closing, the leadership reaffirmed their commitment to the ideals of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and the importance of unity in facing adversity. The vote of confidence in Senator Mbata and his NEC serves as a testament to the trust and support of their membership, paving the way for continued progress and development within the community.
As participants departed, they left with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to advance the cause of the Igbo people in the Southwest, ensuring their voices are heard and their interests represented at all levels of governance.
Dignitaries present at the meeting included Mr. Okechukwu Umeh Nwabunike, President of Ohanaeze Oyo State; Pastor John Dike, President of Ohanaeze Osun State; Onyeoma Chris Ezea Acting President Ohanaeze Ondo State; Ozor Stephen Okorie President Ohanaeze Ogun State, Mr. Robert Obasi, Secretary of Ohanaeze Lagos; Chief Alex Ndubisi, President of Ohanaeze Ekiti State; all Ohanaeze Southwest States Secretaries and other stakeholders.
