OHANAEZE NDIGBO PRESS RELEASE – 25th January 2026

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, finds itself duty-bound by an unwavering commitment to the patrimony of our people and our shared heritage. With deep respect and sincerity, we muster the fortitude to extend a heartfelt plea to esteemed Igbo elder statesmen and distinguished leaders currently residing in exile, particularly those above the customary retirement age of 65 to 70 years. We respectfully beseech these luminaries, now scattered across the globe, to consider returning to their roots in 2026.

Your return will fortify ongoing efforts aimed at reconstructing our beleaguered Igbo nation—ravaged by political and economic disarray, as well as the near collapse of our cherished culture and traditions.

The dire situation facing our homeland demands urgent attention. The prolonged absence of illustrious Igbo leaders from their native land has exacerbated the erosion of our societal values, cultural practices, and indigenous languages. This vacuum has contributed significantly to rising insecurity in the Southeast and discouraged investments by affluent Igbo citizens at home, thereby undermining critical mentorship initiatives and succession planning for emerging leaders within the region.

As we reflect on the legacy of prominent Igbo figures who, having endured the trials of the Nigerian Civil War, chose to dedicate their lives to the advancement of our people—icons such as Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Dim Odumegwu Ojukwu, and Dr Michael Okpara, among others—we are reminded of the imperative for contemporary leaders to emulate their example. These legends lived and spent their final days within the embrace of their homeland, underscoring the profound importance of presence, sacrifice, and engagement.

Regrettably, we observe that leaders from other regions of Nigeria, particularly the Southwest, have seamlessly reintegrated into their communities upon retirement. Notable examples include former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Pa Olu Falae, and Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, whose continued presence in their regions has played a pivotal role in local development and stability.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo asserts, without equivocation, that the prolonged exile of prominent Igbo leaders has had adverse consequences, undermining the momentum of initiatives such as the AKU-RUO-ULO campaign—our passionate call encouraging Igbo entrepreneurs and investors to repatriate their investments to the Southeast. This widespread absence has also fostered an environment in which youth, deprived of guidance and mentorship, become susceptible to violence and unrest. These challenges have been further compounded by the federal government’s disconcerting decision to exclude history from the national educational curriculum.

In light of these realities, we make a special appeal to revered stalwarts such as Chief Emeka Anyaoku, Vice Admiral Ebitu Ukiwe, Admiral Alison Madueke, General Ike Nwachukwu, and others—many of whom continue to wield significant influence and moral authority. Over 120 illustrious individuals, alongside an additional 130 distinguished leaders across the diaspora, are hereby called upon to reclaim their roles at home in the spirit of renewal, responsibility, and revitalisation.

This appeal is not an indictment of these revered figures, but rather a respectful reminder of the urgency with which their wisdom, experience, and presence are needed in our collective reconstruction efforts. The future—the very fabric of Igbo identity—hinges on decisive action. As we strive to position the East of the Niger as a premier economic destination for Africa and the wider world, we are confident that your return will rejuvenate not only the economic fortunes of our people but also inspire renewed political participation, unity, and mentorship among the youth.

In closing, Ohanaeze Ndigbo stands in steadfast solidarity with our cherished leaders. Your return is not merely symbolic—it is essential to the revival of our homeland and a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of Ndigbo.

Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro
Deputy President-General
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide

Chief Chinyereze Ohia
National Spokesman
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide

25th January 2026