OHANAEZE NDIGBO PRESS RELEASE – 22nd April 2026

The apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, stands firm in its resolute conviction that the swift and efficient completion of ongoing Federal Government road construction projects is far more critical to the socio-economic advancement of Ndigbo than the pursuit of any individual’s personal political ambitions—particularly in the context of former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi’s proposed single-term presidency.

In the face of a pressing need for infrastructural development, it is in the collective interest and strategic aspirations of Ndigbo to prioritize the execution of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing road projects and to urgently revitalize the Old Eastern Economic Corridor, which has long been neglected. This includes the dredging of the Calabar Seaport; the establishment of a Deep Sea Port at Blue River in Ukwa East, Abia; and the reopening of the standard gauge railway line from Port Harcourt to Maiduguri—an essential connection that has remained dormant for decades since the conclusion of the Nigerian Civil War in 1970. The failure of successive governments to prioritize the restoration of this vital infrastructure has prevented the Southeast and South-South regions from realizing their full economic potential, thereby hindering national growth and prosperity.

The administration of President Tinubu has demonstrated a clear understanding of the Igbo people’s urgent need for the completion of these critical infrastructural projects. These initiatives are not merely about road construction but represent a holistic economic revival—a return to the era when the Old Eastern Region, under the astute leadership of Dr. Michael Okpara in the 1960s, was regarded as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. It is this visionary leadership that Ndigbo seek to reclaim, and it can only be realized through the completion of these infrastructure projects.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo wholeheartedly applauds the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, for his unwavering commitment to ensuring that these essential roads—forming the backbone of President Tinubu’s infrastructure agenda—are completed and made accessible to all Nigerians, especially the Igbo people, within the available time and resources. For over five decades, Ndigbo have borne the brunt of poor infrastructure, with inadequate road networks leading to tragic loss of lives and severe economic setbacks. The systemic neglect of the Southeast region from 1970 to 2023 by successive Nigerian governments is a regrettable reality that must no longer be ignored.

In reviewing Nigeria’s leadership history since 1999, it is evident that the Igbo nation has faced significant developmental challenges, despite being one of the most industrious and productive regions in the country. Each democratically elected administration—from the North, Southwest, and Niger Delta—has confronted varying degrees of regional and national challenges, with differing outcomes in addressing infrastructure, security, and economic growth.

Given this historical context, Ohanaeze Ndigbo expresses strong reservations regarding Mr. Peter Obi’s single-term presidential proposal. Such a proposition raises concerns about its capacity to deliver sustained infrastructure development and long-term economic recovery for the Southeast. The Igbo people, who are yet to produce a democratically elected Executive President of Nigeria since independence in 1960, must carefully evaluate pathways that guarantee tangible and lasting benefits for the region.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo therefore urges every Igbo son or daughter with presidential aspirations for 2027 to critically reassess their bids in alignment with the broader interests of Ndigbo. The pursuit of a single-term presidency, in isolation, may not sufficiently address the long-term developmental needs and strategic aspirations of the region. We call on key political actors to place collective regional progress above individual ambitions in the interest of unity, growth, and sustainable development.

In conclusion, the urgent need for robust infrastructural development in the Southeast must take precedence over individual political pursuits. The priority of Ndigbo at this critical time is the completion of these vital projects under President Tinubu’s administration. Only through a concerted effort focused on economic revitalization, infrastructural advancement, and enabling policies can the Southeast reclaim its rightful position as a key driver of Nigeria’s growth.

The Igbo people remain united in their commitment to a prosperous future—one that can only be secured through collaboration, strategic leadership, and a shared vision for sustainable development.

Signed:

MAZI OKECHUKWU ISIGUZORO
Deputy President General
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide

CHIEF THOMPSON OHIA
National Spokesman
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide