By Prince Solomon Okorie –  Guidepost News International

Nigeria stands once again at the threshold of a defining national decision. The renewed legislative momentum for the creation of Anioma State—publicly affirmed by Godswill Akpabio and driven with uncommon clarity by Ned Nwoko—is not just another constitutional exercise. It is a litmus test of Nigeria’s sincerity about justice, equity, and true federalism.

Let us be clear: the Anioma question is not a matter of political convenience. It is a historical necessity.

For decades, the Anioma people—culturally, linguistically, and historically aligned with the Igbo nation—have existed within a structural arrangement that neither fully reflects their identity nor adequately serves their developmental aspirations. Their call for a distinct federating unit is not rooted in division, but in dignity; not in exclusion, but in inclusion.

To continue to ignore this demand is to sustain a quiet but enduring injustice.

BEYOND POLITICS: A MORAL AND NATIONAL IMPERATIVE

The reported overwhelming support within the National Assembly for Anioma State signals more than legislative consensus—it reflects a deeper national awakening. It suggests that Nigeria, despite its many contradictions, still retains the capacity to correct long-standing structural imbalances.

The administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu must now rise to the weight of this moment. History does not remember procedural caution—it remembers bold decisions.

If Nigeria truly seeks stability, it must embrace fairness. If it desires unity, it must institutionalize equity. Anioma State represents one such rare and defining opportunity.

WARRI AND ASABA: SYMBOLS OF BALANCE, NOT DIVISION

The proposed designation of Asaba as the capital of Anioma State, alongside Warri as the capital of a restructured Delta State, reflects both strategic thinking and symbolic balance.

Asaba embodies identity—a cultural and political center long embraced by its people. Warri represents capacity—an industrial and economic hub with the infrastructure to sustain administrative leadership.

This is not a zero-sum equation. Rather, it offers a model Nigeria urgently needs: a federation where identity and efficiency coexist in harmony, not rivalry.

THE COST OF DELAY

Nigeria has a troubling pattern of acknowledging legitimate demands only to bury them beneath bureaucracy, hesitation, and endless deliberation.

Anioma must not suffer the same fate.

While due constitutional process remains essential, it must not be manipulated as an instrument of delay. Transparency, consultation, and legality are necessary—but so too is urgency.

Every delay deepens distrust. Every hesitation reinforces a dangerous perception: that some regions must perpetually struggle for recognition, while others enjoy it as a given.

A DEFINING MOMENT FOR THE NATION

The creation of Anioma State transcends regional politics. It is bigger than Delta State, bigger than the South-South, and even beyond the South-East.

It raises a fundamental question: Is Nigeria ready to evolve into a federation that works for all its people, or will it remain bound to a structure that benefits only a few?

This is a moment of reckoning.

The National Assembly has taken a courageous step. The Nigerian people are watching. The international community is observing.

Nigeria must now decide—will it act with justice, or retreat into familiar hesitation?

FINAL WORD

Anioma State is not a concession. It is a long-overdue right.

To deny it is to undermine the very principles of equity and justice upon which a true federation must stand. To grant it is to send a powerful message—that Nigeria, despite its challenges, remains capable of fairness, courage, and historic redemption.

The moment is not tomorrow.

The moment is now.

Written By:
His Lordship, Justice Alpha Ikpeama
Director General (D-G)
United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide

Prof. Obasi Igwe
National Director, Media and Publicity

By Prince Solomon Okorie   –   Guidepost News International

Nigeria stands once again at the threshold of a defining national decision. The renewed legislative momentum for the creation of Anioma State—publicly affirmed by Godswill Akpabio and driven with uncommon clarity by Ned Nwoko—is not just another constitutional exercise. It is a litmus test of Nigeria’s sincerity about justice, equity, and true federalism.

Let us be clear: the Anioma question is not a political convenience. It is a historical necessity.

For decades, the Anioma people—culturally, linguistically, and historically aligned with the Igbo nation—have lived within a structural arrangement that has neither fully reflected their identity nor adequately served their developmental aspirations. Their call for a distinct federating unit is not rooted in division, but in dignity. Not in exclusion, but in inclusion.

To ignore this demand any longer is to perpetuate a quiet injustice.

BEYOND POLITICS: A MORAL IMPERATIVE

The endorsement of Anioma State by the National Assembly, with reported overwhelming senatorial backing, signals something deeper than legislative consensus—it signals a national awakening. It affirms that Nigeria, despite its many contradictions, still possesses the capacity to correct structural imbalances.

The administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu must now rise to the weight of this moment. History will not remember procedural delays. It will remember courage—or the lack of it.

If Nigeria truly seeks stability, then it must embrace fairness. If it desires unity, then it must institutionalize equity. Anioma State is one such opportunity.

WARRI AND ASABA: SYMBOLS OF BALANCE, NOT DIVISION

The proposed designation of Asaba as the capital of Anioma State, and Warri as the capital of a restructured Delta State, is both strategic and symbolic.

Asaba represents identity—a cultural and political heartbeat long recognized by its people. Warri represents capacity—an industrial and economic hub with the infrastructure to sustain administrative leadership.

This is not a zero-sum arrangement. It is a model of balance Nigeria desperately needs: where identity and efficiency coexist, not compete.

THE DANGER OF DELAY

Nigeria has a troubling history of acknowledging legitimate demands—only to suffocate them in endless committees, political hesitation, and bureaucratic inertia.

This must not be another such story.

The constitutional process must be followed, yes—but it must not be weaponized as a tool of delay. Transparency, consultation, and legality are essential. But so too is urgency.

Every delay deepens distrust. Every hesitation reinforces the perception that some regions must perpetually negotiate for recognition while others take it for granted.

A DEFINING CHOICE FOR NIGERIA

The creation of Anioma State is bigger than Delta State. Bigger than the South-South. Bigger, even, than the South-East.

It is about whether Nigeria is prepared to evolve into a federation that works for all its people—or remain trapped in a structure that serves only a few.

This is a moment of reckoning.

The National Assembly has taken a bold step. The Nigerian people are watching. The world is observing.

Nigeria must now decide: will it act with justice—or retreat into familiar hesitation?

FINAL WORD

Anioma State is not a favor to a people. It is a right long overdue.

To deny it is to deny the very principles upon which a just federation stands.

To grant it is to send a powerful message—that Nigeria, despite its challenges, is still capable of fairness, courage, and historic redemption.

The time is not tomorrow. The time is now.

Written By:
His Lordship,
Justice Alpha Ikpeama
Director General (D-G)
United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide

Prof. Obasi Igwe
National Director,
Media and Publicity

By Prince Solomon   –   Guidepost News international

UNITED IGBO ELDERS COUNCIL (UNIEC) WORLDWIDE
Custodians of Heritage • Voices of Conscience • Advocates of True Federalism

FORMAL POLICY ADVISORY MEMORANDUM

To: The Federal Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria / The National Assembly
From: United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide
Subject: Strategic National Response Framework on the UK–Nigeria Export Finance and Migration Partnership
Date: March 2026

I. PREAMBLE

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide, acting within its institutional mandate as Custodians of Heritage, Voices of Conscience, and Advocates of True Federalism, respectfully submits this Policy Advisory Memorandum to the Federal Government and the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

This advisory is necessitated by the evolving national and international discourse surrounding the United Kingdom–Nigeria Export Finance and Migration Partnership, as well as the concerns raised across policy, legal, and public domains.

As an elder-statesman body grounded in historical insight, strategic foresight, and national responsibility, UNIEC considers it imperative to present a balanced, pragmatic, and forward-looking framework—one that safeguards Nigeria’s sovereignty, economic integrity, and human dignity, while preserving constructive diplomatic relations.

II. CONTEXT AND POLICY TRIGGER

The bilateral arrangement under consideration reportedly includes:

A £746 million export finance facility for port infrastructure development

Procurement provisions favoring United Kingdom firms

A migration cooperation framework, including expedited return mechanisms


Public and expert discourse has highlighted critical concerns, including:

Financial asymmetry and debt sustainability risks

Ethical implications of migration conditionalities

Compliance with international human rights obligations

Security implications of enforced or premature returns


III. STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT: NATIONAL IMPLICATIONS

A. Potential Advantages

UNIEC acknowledges that, if properly structured and renegotiated, the partnership may yield measurable national benefits:

1. Infrastructure and Maritime Development



Modernization of Nigeria’s port systems, particularly Lagos

Enhanced trade efficiency and competitiveness

Potential positioning of Nigeria as a regional maritime hub


2. Access to Finance and Technical Expertise



Mobilization of external capital for critical infrastructure

Technology transfer and improved project execution capacity

Strengthened bilateral economic engagement


3. Diplomatic Leverage



Consolidation of Nigeria’s global partnerships

Expanded opportunities in trade, security, and investment cooperation


B. Key Risks and Structural Concerns

Notwithstanding the above, UNIEC identifies significant risks requiring urgent attention:

1. Sovereign Debt Exposure



Financing structures that disproportionately benefit the lending economy

Long-term fiscal pressure and constrained policy flexibility


2. Erosion of Economic Sovereignty



Procurement restrictions limiting domestic industry participation

Risk of entrenched dependency rather than capacity development


3. Human Rights and Legal Vulnerabilities



Potential conflict with the principle of non-refoulement under international law

Exposure of returnees to unsafe or unstable environments

Reputational risks in global human rights compliance


4. Security Misalignment



Reintegration of returnees into regions experiencing insecurity

Disconnect between migration enforcement and internal security realities


5. Diplomatic and Reputational Sensitivities



Risk of adversarial narratives if not carefully managed

Potential strain on bilateral and multilateral relationships


IV. STRATEGIC NATIONAL RESPONSE FRAMEWORK

UNIEC proposes a Five-Pillar Strategic Response Framework:

Pillar 1: Immediate Policy Review and Conditional Suspension

Initiate a comprehensive Executive Review of all agreement terms

Temporarily suspend migration-related provisions pending:

Independent security assessment

Legal and human rights compliance review


Ensure full legislative oversight by the National Assembly


Pillar 2: Equitable Renegotiation

Review and amend procurement clauses to enhance local participation

Introduce:

Minimum local content thresholds

Binding technology transfer provisions

Transparent financial terms and risk-sharing mechanisms



Pillar 3: Human Rights and Legal Safeguards

Establish a National Compliance Framework aligned with international law

Guarantee:

Individualized assessment of returnees

Protection against returns to high-risk zones


Partner with international institutions for monitoring and accountability


Pillar 4: National Security Alignment

Integrate migration decisions with real-time security intelligence

Prohibit returns to:

High-risk conflict zones

Humanitarian distress regions



Pillar 5: Strategic Diplomatic Engagement

Maintain a constructive, non-confrontational diplomatic posture

Engage the United Kingdom through:

Bilateral negotiations

Parliamentary diplomacy

Commonwealth frameworks


Reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to fairness, mutual respect, and shared prosperity


V. ROLE OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

UNIEC strongly recommends that the National Assembly:

Constitute a Joint Select Committee to review the agreement

Conduct transparent public hearings involving:

Economic experts

Human rights organizations

Security agencies


Exercise full constitutional oversight on sovereign financial agreements

Enact legislation governing:

Export finance arrangements

Migration-linked bilateral treatise

VI. INSTITUTIONAL POSITION OF UNIEC

UNIEC firmly states:

«“Nigeria must remain open to global partnerships, but never at the expense of its sovereignty, dignity, or the safety of its citizens. Sustainable cooperation is anchored on equity, reciprocity, and mutual respect.”»

Furthermore:

«“A nation that fails to rigorously evaluate the terms of its engagements risks compromising not only its economy, but the future security and welfare of its people.”»

VII. CONCLUSION

This development presents Nigeria with a strategic inflection point—not merely to respond to a specific agreement, but to recalibrate its broader framework for international engagement.

The appropriate path forward lies not in passive acceptance or outright rejection, but in:

Strategic recalibration

Institutional strengthening

Principled and evidence-based negotiation


UNIEC therefore calls on the Federal Government and the National Assembly to act with urgency, foresight, and national responsibility in ensuring that all international agreements reflect the highest standards of equity, legality, and national interest.

VIII. ENDORSEMENT

For and on behalf of the United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide:

His Lordship, Justice Alpha Ikpeama
Director General

Prof. Obasi Igwe
National Director, Media and Publicity

“Custodians of Heritage • Voices of Conscience • Advocates of True Federalism”

By Prince Solomon. –  Guidepost News international

---

OFFICIAL COMMUNIQUÉ
UNITED IGBO ELDERS COUNCIL (UNIEC) WORLDWIDE
Custodians of Heritage • Voices of Conscience • Advocates of True Federalism

COMMENDATION OF GOVERNOR ALEX OTTI’S CALL FOR REGIONAL UNITY AND TRADITIONAL INSTITUTIONAL COLLABORATION

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide hereby expresses its profound commendation to the Executive Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, for his statesmanlike advocacy for enhanced unity, strategic collaboration, and collective responsibility among traditional rulers across the Southeast and South-South geopolitical regions.

UNIEC recognizes this timely intervention as a reflection of visionary leadership anchored on the enduring principles of justice, equity, and inclusive governance. The Council notes with satisfaction that Governor Otti’s position aligns with long-standing indigenous governance values, where traditional institutions serve as stabilizing anchors of peace, cultural continuity, and grassroots development.

The Council particularly underscores the Governor’s emphasis on:

• Inter-regional cooperation as a catalyst for sustainable peace and economic advancement;
• The non-partisan and enduring role of traditional rulers as custodians of heritage and moral authority;
• The centrality of justice, fairness, and meritocracy in governance as foundations for national cohesion; and
• The need to transcend artificial divisions in favor of a united and purpose-driven regional outlook

UNIEC affirms that the strengthening of synergy between traditional institutions and constituted authorities is indispensable to addressing contemporary security challenges, fostering social harmony, and accelerating people-centered development across the region and Nigeria at large.

Furthermore, the Council warmly acknowledges the Governor’s recognition of Nnaemeka Achebe, Obi of Onitsha, whose exemplary leadership and statesmanship continue to inspire unity, cultural pride, and progressive engagement within and beyond Igboland. His forthcoming 85th birthday celebration is not only a personal milestone but a symbolic moment of reflection on the enduring relevance of enlightened traditional leadership in modern governance.

---

UNIEC POSITION

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide:

1. Strongly endorses Governor Otti’s call for unity and structured collaboration among traditional rulers;
2. Encourages institutional frameworks that formalize inter-regional engagement between Southeast and South-South traditional councils;
3. Advocates deeper integration of traditional institutions into peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and development planning processes;
4. Calls on all stakeholders—political leaders, traditional rulers, civil society, and the private sector—to embrace unity as the cornerstone of regional transformation; and
5. Reaffirms its commitment to promoting dialogue, equity, and true federalism as pathways to a stable, prosperous, and just Nigerian federation.

---

CONCLUSION

UNIEC reiterates that the pathway to enduring peace, security, and development lies in unity of purpose, respect for indigenous institutions, and adherence to the timeless values of justice and fairness. The Council therefore urges all leaders across the Southeast and South-South regions to heed this clarion call and work collectively toward a shared vision of progress and stability.

---

Issued by:
The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide

Signed:
His Lordship,
Justice Alpha Ikpeama
Director General

Prof. Obasi Igwe
National Director, Media and Publicity

For God and for the Future of Our People.

PRESS RELEASE

By Prince Solomon Okorie   –   Guidepost News international

The attention of the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, CON, has been drawn to the ongoing public discourse surrounding the claims and counterclaims by Mrs. Tracy Ohiri, particularly as they relate to her lawyer, Barr. Marshall Abubakar. Ordinarily, we would have ignored this, but it has become necessary, in the interest of truth and public clarity, to address these issues directly.

First, it is important to clarify that Barr. Marshall Abubakar acted in good faith and was motivated solely by a desire to assist Mrs. Ohiri. His involvement was entirely selfless and driven by a genuine effort to resolve the matter amicably.

At no time did Barr. Marshall discuss or negotiate payment of any money to Mrs. Ohiri. However, some associates and well-meaning individuals independently approached him with the intention of helping her.

For the avoidance of doubt, the Honourable Minister had clearly stated two conditions for resolving the matter: either the issue should be determined in court, or Mrs. Ohiri should provide verifiable evidence, including all relevant communications, to substantiate her claims.

It must also be emphasized that Barr. Marshall Abubakar conducted himself with utmost decency and integrity throughout. He neither requested nor received any money from the Honourable Minister at any point.

Following the failure to meet the stated conditions, particularly the inability to provide credible and verifiable evidence, the Minister has directed his legal team to proceed with all court processes to ensure that the truth is fully established.

The Minister further acknowledged that he had indicated to Barr. Marshall that if Mrs. Ohiri could provide complete evidence, logs and communications from the period in question, some friends and associates were willing to contribute the sum of One Billion Naira (N1b). The Minister is still waiting for the above.

It is also worth noting that for several years, the Minister chose to remain silent despite persistent provocations and public attacks. This restraint was deliberate and guided by a commitment to focus on state and national service rather than distractions. However, recent developments have made it necessary to respond.

The Honourable Minister therefore extends sincere appreciation to Nigerians who have taken their time to examine the facts and arrive at an informed understanding of the situation. There is growing awareness that not everyone who presents themselves as a victim truly is one, and that, in some cases, narratives are deliberately inverted.

The Honourable Minister remains fully committed to his mandate. He will not be distracted from the ongoing work of delivering critical road infrastructure across the country. The focus remains on results, service, and ensuring that Nigerians continue to benefit from projects that improve connectivity, economic growth, and national development.

We assure Nigerians that this administration will continue to pursue its transformation agenda with dedication, transparency, and an unwavering sense of responsibility.

Francis Nwaze, FIPMD
Senior Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister of Works (Media)
March 21, 2026

— Adapted from an interview by Steve Uzoechi our guest writer

A renewed debate over the legacy of the Nigerian Civil War has been sparked following recent remarks by Cubana Chief Priest suggesting that the Igbo were defeated in the conflict. The comment reflects a widely held view among younger generations—but one that late elder statesman Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu strongly contested during his lifetime.

In a 2020 interview conducted during his 78th birthday, Iwuanyanwu—who actively fought in the war—offered a detailed, firsthand account that challenges conventional historical narratives describing the end of the conflict as a “defeat” or “surrender” of Biafra.

A Different Perspective on the War’s End

According to Iwuanyanwu, who said he commanded the final defensive battle at Uli Airport, the portrayal of Biafra’s collapse as a military defeat is historically inaccurate. While acknowledging that Nigeria had superior military resources, he emphasized the resilience and determination of Biafran forces.

He explained that many young Igbo men took up arms not out of ambition, but out of necessity—driven by widespread killings and a deep sense of insecurity. “We fought like people who had no other choice,” he recalled, stressing that survival, rather than conquest, defined their struggle.

“Not Defeat, But Negotiation”

Central to Iwuanyanwu’s argument is his assertion that the war ended through negotiation rather than outright defeat. He maintained that without diplomatic intervention, the conflict could have dragged on for over a decade, potentially evolving into prolonged guerrilla warfare.

He credited key figures such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Yakubu Gowon, and William Tubman for facilitating peace talks that ultimately brought the war to an end. According to him, Azikiwe played a pivotal role in securing Tubman’s mediation, leading to critical negotiations with Gowon.

The Role of Leadership and Reconciliation

Iwuanyanwu also highlighted the intervention of Philip Effiong, who helped persuade younger Biafran officers to accept the ceasefire. Effiong reportedly framed the outcome not as a capitulation, but as a necessary step toward peace—an understanding later echoed in the famous post-war declaration of “No Victor, No Vanquished.”

The assurances given at the time included no war crime trials, reintegration of soldiers and civil servants, and the implementation of post-war policies centered on “Rehabilitation, Reconstruction, and Reconciliation.”

Reassessing Historical Memory

Iwuanyanwu further noted that many Igbo people reintegrated across Nigeria after the war, often reclaiming properties—particularly in northern regions where, he claimed, assets were preserved by local communities. He cited the role of traditional authorities, including the Emir of Kano, in protecting Igbo interests during and after the conflict.

While acknowledging the complexities and tragedies of the war, he insisted that it should not be remembered as a story of defeat, but rather as one of resilience and negotiated peace.

A Call to Younger Generations

As debates continue, Iwuanyanwu’s reflections serve as a reminder of the importance of firsthand accounts in shaping historical understanding. His message to younger Nigerians was clear: the story of the civil war is more nuanced than commonly portrayed, and its legacy should be approached with a deeper appreciation of context, sacrifice, and diplomacy.

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide has congratulated Chukwuma Soludo on his re-election as Governor of Anambra State, following his victory in the November 8, 2025 governorship election.

In a press statement, the Council also extended congratulations to the Deputy Governor, Onyekachukwu Ibezim, describing their renewed mandate as a reflection of public confidence in the administration’s leadership and vision.

UNIEC Worldwide commended Governor Soludo’s first-term performance, highlighting key achievements in institutional reforms, economic transformation, infrastructure expansion, and long-term development planning. According to the Council, these efforts have laid a solid foundation for sustainable governance and growth in the state.

The group further lauded the administration’s “Gear 4.0” agenda, describing it as a forward-looking framework aimed at consolidating ongoing projects while positioning Anambra as a hub for innovation, industrialization, and modern urban development.

The Council also praised the government’s infrastructure blueprint, which includes plans for new city developments, an aerotropolis, industrial clusters, and strategic land banking initiatives. It noted that such projects, alongside investments in transportation, energy, and trade infrastructure, underscore a commitment to economic modernization and private sector participation.

In addition, UNIEC Worldwide acknowledged reforms in critical sectors such as electricity, rail and gas development, as well as the establishment of free trade zones, describing them as transformative steps toward enhancing economic competitiveness and improving living standards.

As part of its recognition, the Council announced plans to document the administration’s achievements in its forthcoming Great Igbo Achievers’ Book of Records, an initiative aimed at preserving the legacies of outstanding Igbo leaders and institutions.

UNIEC Worldwide reiterated its willingness to collaborate with the Anambra State Government and other stakeholders to ensure that developmental milestones are properly documented and sustained.

The statement concluded with optimism that Governor Soludo’s second term would consolidate existing gains and deliver inclusive growth, innovation-driven development, and lasting prosperity for the people of Anambra State.

News Report:
A communiqué issued by Prince Solomon Okorie, National President of the Independent Media Professionals, & Publisher Guidepost News International has called on Igbos to refrain from criticizing the efforts of David Umahi, describing him as a dedicated leader contributing significantly to national development.

In the statement, Okorie cautioned against what he described as attempts by “enemies of the Igbo Nation” to undermine Umahi’s achievements, urging the people to remain united and supportive of progressive leadership.

He highlighted Umahi’s tenure as Governor of Ebonyi State, noting that he left behind notable infrastructural and developmental milestones. Prince Okorie also praised his current role as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, stating that he has continued to demonstrate commitment by laying down strategic blueprints for national growth.

The communiqué further addressed the popular notion that the Igbo have no central leadership, warning that internal division and undue criticism could reinforce such perceptions. Prince Okorie stressed the importance of unity among Igbos, emphasizing that collective support is vital for both regional advancement and national cohesion.

He concluded by urging Igbos to rally behind leaders working for the progress of the nation, noting that unity remains a key driver of sustainable development.

Official Contacts: guidepostintmagazine@gmail.com

07033382692

Public Unveiling of the Igbo Book of Records

The Great Igbo Achievers Initiative, promoters of the Igbo Legacy Day and the Igbo Book of Records, in strategic partnership with the United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide, and with the endorsement of several distinguished Igbo organisations duly registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja, Nigeria, is pleased to formally announce the hosting of The Great Igbo Achievers’ Legacy Day.

The Executive Governor of Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, Governor of Enugu State, has graciously granted official approval for the hosting of this historic event at the Enugu Smart City, as referenced under GHS/332/XXXIV/284 dated 10th September 2025.

This landmark occasion is conceived as a cultural and intellectual milestone dedicated to documenting, celebrating, and preserving the outstanding achievements of distinguished sons and daughters of Alaigbo whose contributions have significantly advanced the Igbo Nation, Nigeria, and the global community.

THE GREAT IGBO ACHIEVERS BOOK OF RECORDS

A major highlight of the event will be the formal unveiling of The Great Igbo Achievers Book of Records, a 1,000-page hardcover compendium devoted to the celebration and documentation of Igbo excellence.

The First Edition will feature 200 carefully selected profiles of distinguished Igbo achievers from around the world, drawn from sectors including:

Governance and Public Service

Academia and Intellectual Leadership

Business and Entrepreneurship

Science and Technology

Culture, Arts, and Literature

Law, Justice, and Public Advocacy

Industry and Professional Excellence

Each profile will comprehensively document:

Full Name and Professional Designation

State of Origin

Biographical Summary

Major Roles and Achievements

Enduring Legacy and Impact on the Igbo Nation and Nigerian Society

The Council further acknowledges that His Excellency, Governor Mbah, has approved the documentation of his landmark developmental achievements in the Book of Records, alongside those of other Governors of Igbo-speaking States, in recognition of their transformative leadership and contributions to the development of their respective states and to the progress of the Igbo Nation.

This publication is designed to serve as:

A permanent archival reference of Igbo excellence

A heritage documentation project for the Igbo Nation

A source of inspiration for future generations

A symbol of cultural pride and intellectual heritage for Africa and the world

CALL FOR ADVERTISEMENTS AND GOODWILL MESSAGES

Individuals, organisations, institutions, government agencies, and well-wishers are invited to participate by placing Advertisements and Goodwill Messages in the Book of Records and its Commemorative Brochure. Early submission is strongly encouraged.

All contributions must be professionally typed and submitted in PDF format to ensure high-quality production and printing.

Submission Channels

WhatsApp:
+234 816 460 0000
+234 817 577 7707

Email:
thegreatigboachieverslegacy@gmail.com

Website:
http://www.thegreatigboachievers.org

ADVERTISEMENT RATES

Book of Records

Full Page — ₦1,000,000+
Half Page — ₦600,000

Commemorative Brochure

Full Page — ₦300,000
Half Page — ₦160,000

(USD equivalent accepted)

PAYMENT DETAILS

Account Name: The Great Igbo Achievers Initiative
Account Number: 1311013655
Bank: Zenith Bank Plc

INSTITUTIONAL EMPOWERMENT AND SUPPORT

The Book of Records and Legacy Day Celebration are empowered and supported as a noble cultural documentation project for the Igbo Nation by:

1. Igbo Think – Home Investment and Development Limited

2. United Igbo Patrons and Elders Congress

3. Alaigbo Achievers’ Legacy Limited

4. Anambra Achievers’ Legacy

5. Imo Elders and Stakeholders Forum

6. Abia Achievers Legacy Limited

7. Anambra Elders and Stakeholders Forum

These organisations collectively support the vision of recording excellence, preserving legacy, and documenting the achievements of outstanding Igbo personalities.

APPRECIATION

The Central Organising Committee sincerely appreciates the goodwill, cooperation, and support of individuals, organisations, institutions, and stakeholders contributing to this historic cultural initiative.

Your valued participation will help ensure the success of this landmark publication and preserve the legacy of Igbo excellence for generations yet unborn.

Signed

The Central Organising Committee
United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide

In Strategic Partnership With:
The Great Igbo Achievers Initiative

BY PRINCE SOLOMON OKORIE

From every point of view, the City Boys Movement is a noble idea and a strategic political initiative. The vision behind the movement is clear—to mobilize energetic young Nigerians to support the leadership and policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and to help drive the national conversation about progress and reform.

Nigeria’s challenges did not begin today, and it would be unrealistic to expect that any leader could repair decades of structural problems within just one tenure. For this reason, many Nigerians, including us, proudly and boldly support the City Boys Movement and its mission of mobilizing grassroots support for the administration of President Tinubu.

However, while the idea behind the movement is commendable, the situation in Enugu State raises serious concerns that cannot be ignored.

—

Leadership Concerns in Enugu

In Enugu, what we currently have appears to be “City Men” rather than “City Boys.” The movement was designed to be youth-driven—a platform powered by vibrant young people who can easily mingle, mobilize, and inspire other youths to actively canvass for support.

Unfortunately, the present leadership structure in Enugu does not reflect that youthful energy. The leadership is dominated by individuals who, by disposition and approach, seem disconnected from the youthful base the movement is supposed to attract.

As a result, the movement is struggling to generate the excitement and grassroots engagement that it was originally designed to create.

A Comparison with Imo State

A clear example can be seen in neighboring Imo State, where the movement enjoys massive followership under the leadership of the vibrant social personality Pascal Chibuike Okechukwu. His youthful influence, visibility, and strong connection with young people have made the movement attractive and energetic in that state.

In contrast, the situation in Enugu State feels like politics as usual—rigid, uninspiring, and largely disconnected from the youthful audience the movement is meant to galvanize.

Stakeholders Express Concern

Our independent inquiries reveal that many influential personalities in Enugu have deliberately stayed away from the movement due to dissatisfaction with the current leadership.

A prominent business mogul in Enugu East, who spoke to us during a brief interview, stated clearly that he could not join the movement because of the leadership structure currently in place. According to him, the leadership style does not inspire confidence nor does it encourage broad participation from young entrepreneurs and influential stakeholders.

Similarly, Dr. Ike Akaju from Enugu West also raised concerns. He pointed out that many individuals who would ordinarily support the movement have lost interest simply because they do not believe the present leadership reflects the spirit and vision of the City Boys Movement.

The Way Forward

If the City Boys Movement truly intends to achieve meaningful impact in Enugu State, the leadership question must be taken seriously.

Movements that aim to mobilize youths must be led by individuals who embody youthful energy, accessibility, influence, and the ability to connect with the grassroots. Without this, the movement risks remaining stagnant and ineffective in the state.

The City Boys Movement still holds enormous potential in Enugu. The state is filled with talented young entrepreneurs, entertainers, and influential personalities who can help drive the vision forward. But for them to come on board, the leadership structure must inspire confidence and inclusiveness.

The question therefore remains:

Will the City Boys Movement take the situation in Enugu seriously enough to reposition its leadership for a more positive and impactful result?

Only time will tell.