By Prince Solomon Okorie
Guidepost News International

Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has called on the Federal and State Governments to prioritize the welfare of military veterans and consider them for active roles in governance.

The governor made the call on Wednesday during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony held in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital.

The annual event, which honors the sacrifices of Nigeria’s fallen heroes, attracted top security chiefs, government officials, and members of the Nigerian Legion. Governor Nwifuru led the state delegation at the solemn ceremony.

Speaking during the event, the Chairman of the Nigerian Legion in Ebonyi State, Veteran Ijeagwu Okechukwu, described the occasion as a moment of “deep reflection,” noting that the peace Nigeria enjoys today is a direct result of the supreme sacrifices made by men and women of the Armed Forces in defense of the nation’s territorial integrity.

Okechukwu also highlighted the international reputation of the Nigerian military, citing its “remarkable contributions” to global peace through various United Nations peacekeeping missions across the world.

He commended the Federal Government for sustaining relative peace nationwide and specifically praised Governor Nwifuru for his proactive security initiatives in Ebonyi State.

“We are all here today because His Excellency invested time and resources to bring peace to Ebonyi State,” Okechukwu said, attributing the reduction in communal clashes and improved protection of lives and property to the governor’s leadership.

Despite the celebratory mood, the Legion Chairman drew attention to the need for stronger institutional support for veterans. He recalled that the Nigerian Legion was established in 1962 and backed by an Act of Parliament in 1964, stressing that retired servicemen deserve better welfare and recognition.

Okechukwu made key appeals to the state government, including the appointment of qualified veterans into political and public service positions to boost morale among retired personnel. He also called for increased funding to strengthen the Legion’s welfare programs and operational capacity.

Additionally, he highlighted the role of the Corps of Commissionaires, a security affiliate of the Nigerian Legion supervised by the Ministry of Defence, which continues to support traffic control and grassroots security operations across the state.

Armed Forces Remembrance Day remains a symbol of Nigeria’s national pride, serving as an annual reminder of the sacrifices made by fallen heroes and the need for sustained support for serving personnel, veterans, and the families of those who paid the ultimate price.

By Prince Solomon Eddie-Johns

The Chairman of Ishielu Local Government Area, Hon. Mrs. Peace Agwu, has officially purchased her nomination and expression of interest forms in preparation for the forthcoming local government election.

The exercise took place on Tuesday, January 14, 2026, at the All Progressives Congress (APC) secretariat, where the chairman arrived in the company of a large crowd of supporters who stormed the venue in a show of solidarity.

Speaking during the event, Hon. Mrs. Agwu described the massive turnout of supporters as a clear testimony to her performance during her first tenure in office. She expressed gratitude for the continued support and confidence reposed in her leadership, noting that the people’s presence affirmed her commitment to good governance and grassroots development.

She pledged to sustain the current development tempo and surpass previous achievements if given the mandate to serve a second term.

Those in her entourage included DC coordinators from Ishielu Local Government Area, serving councillors, and various support groups, all of whom reiterated their support for her re-election bid.

By Prince Solomon Okorie

Upon Purchasing his nomination form ,
Hon Igwe Chukudi Victor a councillorship aspirant of ndufu Alike ward who expressed his expectations for victory and  plans as a councillorship candidate of All Progressive Congress (APC) He  emphasize that their success is pre-ordained and their primary goal is to build upon the existing peace and progress established by the current governor His Excellency, Rt Hon. Bldr. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru. He note that their community as peaceful, digital, and housed within a Federal University.

He added that his plan, if elected is not to enact radical change, but to enhance current efforts by bringing the ‘people’s charter of need’ to the grassroots level. This involves understanding and addressing the specific needs of the people. He highlights peace as the most critical achievement for any leader, stating, “the best thing you achieve as a leader is to achieve peace.” He promise to continue the governor’s work of maintaining peace and delivering on the people’s needs, ensuring the community will be proud of their efforts.

A significant theme is the importance of peace. Hon. Victor praises the  Gov. Nwifuru for achieving 3 years without crisis which he  said is happening for the first time in three decades. He believe that peace is the ultimate achievement for any leader, stating that without it, all other developments like infrastructure are vulnerable and targets for destruction. His promise to the community is to deliver and maintain peace above all else.

Expectations and Leadership Philosophy . He expresses optimism in their destined victory and future success. Stating that leadership philosophy is not about radical change but about enhancement and addition. He eulogized the work of the current administration of governor Nwifuru and the local councilor, and plan to  consolidate on the good work rather than overhaul existing performance.

Action Points·
Ensure the people’s charter of need reaches the grassroots.·Understand the specific needs of the people through negotiation and local government collaboration.·Build upon the work of the current councilor andgovernor.·Prioritize and maintain peace within

By Prince Solomon Okorie – Guidepost News International

The Izhi Tehu Foundation (ITF), a non-political organization committed to improving the welfare of its people, has launched a comprehensive empowerment initiative aimed at enlightenment and job creation in Ebonyi State.

The launch, which coincided with the Foundation’s 2026 Awards Ceremony in Abakaliki, the state capital, also featured the conferment of awards on distinguished individuals of the Izhi clan whose contributions have positively impacted their communities.

Speaking at the event, the President of ITF, Adm. Christopher Igwe Agbo, said the initiative was designed to address key challenges confronting the Izhi people, particularly in education, skills acquisition, youth unemployment, and poverty alleviation.

According to him, the Foundation has developed a structured and sustainable empowerment framework known as the Izhi Tehu Foundation Youth Empowerment Initiative, to be implemented through two complementary programmes: Acquire2Zoom (A2Z) and SkillUp Izhi (SUI).

He explained that Acquire2Zoom (A2Z) focuses on education support, sensitization, academic guidance, and value orientation, with the objective of improving access to education, boosting academic performance, and promoting science and innovation. The programme also seeks to inculcate core Izhi values such as honesty, hard work, discipline, patience, and prudence.

Key components of A2Z include annual Mathematics and Science Quiz Competitions, Innovation and Creativity Awards, and scholarships for outstanding JSS 3 and SS 3 students transitioning to tertiary institutions.

On the other hand, SkillUp Izhi (SUI) is tailored to equip Izhi youths with relevant vocational, digital, and entrepreneurial skills to enhance employability and self-reliance. The programme will be implemented in phases, covering trainer and trainee selection, intensive skills training with mentorship, provision of start-up equipment, operating support, and continuous monitoring and evaluation.

Agbo called on members of the Izhi clan to embrace unity and collective responsibility, stressing that sustainable development is the product of deliberate planning, strategic thinking, and coordinated effort.

Chairman of the occasion, Chief Dominic Nwibo, commended the Foundation for the initiative and expressed appreciation for the recognition of his philanthropic contributions to the Izhi people, for which he was honoured with an Award of Excellence.

In his remarks, Nwibo urged youths to be visionary, disciplined, and consistent in pursuing their goals, noting that success is anchored on clarity of purpose and sustained effort.
“Everybody who has succeeded made up his mind about what he wanted to do. Some call it vision. Vision is simply a picture of a preferable future,” he said.

Recipients of the Professional Award of Excellence included the first Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) from Izhi land, Barr. Luke Nkwegu; Rear Admiral Gabriel Aligwe (Rtd.); Chief Anthony Nwizi, Director-General of EBBC; Chief Chikoadili Ojimba; Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi; among other eminent personalities.

The award recipients applauded the empowerment initiative and lauded the Izhi Tehu Foundation for its consistent efforts in shaping the future of the younger generation. They collectively called for greater unity and purposeful collaboration among the Izhi people.

Speaking on behalf of the awardees, Chief Anthony Nwizi expressed gratitude to the Foundation, describing the recognition as unexpected and encouraging. He praised ITF for its quiet but impactful interventions, particularly in supporting students and empowering youths without government assistance.

He expressed optimism that the newly launched initiative would attract wider support and lead to increased empowerment opportunities for Izhi youths across the state.

By Prince Solomon

PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria— In a strongly-worded intervention regarding the escalating political crisis in Rivers State, the United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide has formally condemned the proposed impeachment notice against Governor Siminalayi Fubara by the Rivers State House of Assembly.

The statement released on Monday, January 12, 2026, the Council’s statement characterizes the legislative move as a targeted assault on the constitutional mandate of the executive and a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s democratic stability.

The UNIEC leadership, representing a broad coalition of elders and stakeholders, identified several critical concerns regarding the move to remove the Governor:

Undermining the Popular Will: The Council described the impeachment attempt as an “abortion of true democracy,” asserting that Governor Fubara holds a sacred mandate bestowed upon him by the electorate through a free and fair democratic process.

Threat to Regional Stability: UNIEC warned that political instability in Rivers State—a primary economic hub in the South-South—could have a ripple effect, jeopardizing peace and social progress across neighboring states.

Obstruction of Governance: The elders council emphasized that the constant threat of impeachment serves as a “sabotage” of the Governor’s transformative governance agenda, distracting the administration from delivering essential services and infrastructure to the people.

The group called on President Bola Tinubu urgent intervention to the to prevent the conspiracy. Stating that the executive and legislative arms are designed to be partners in progress, not adversaries. UNIEC noted that the Governor deserves the total cooperation of the Assembly to fulfill his developmental promises.

Strategic Recommendations for Peace

To avert a total breakdown of law and order, UNIEC proposed the following path forward:

1.  Constructive Engagement: The Council urged the members of the House of Assembly to withdraw the notice and prioritize dialogue over confrontation.
2.  Maturity in Leadership: Legislators were advised to rise above partisan or personal grievances and consider the overarching interests of Rivers State citizens.
3.  Adherence to the Rule of Law: UNIEC called on all political actors to respect the independence of the various arms of government without resorting to intimidation or “political thuggery.”

Context of the Crisis
The latest impeachment threat follows months of friction between the executive and a faction of the legislature, a conflict that has divided the political landscape of the state. UNIEC’s intervention adds to a growing chorus of national voices calling for a peaceful resolution to ensure that governance remains the priority in Rivers State.

Official Endorsement

The communique was jointly signed by the high-ranking leadership of the organization:
“Governor Fubara was duly and democratically elected. To attempt to remove him through questionable legislative maneuvers is to insult the intelligence of the voters. We urge the Assembly to work collaboratively with the Governor to foster inclusive development.”

His Lordship, Bishop Alpha Ikpeama, Director-General, UNIEC Worldwide,
Prince Solomon Okorie, National Publicity Secretary, UNIEC

By Prince-Solomon Okorie – Guidepost News Desk

A recent retirement ceremony has sparked renewed conversations across Nigeria about the harsh realities awaiting many workers after decades of dedicated service.

The celebration was grand. Music filled the air, speeches flowed freely, and colleagues applauded a man described as “a model of integrity” who had devoted 35 years of his life to public service. It was a fitting farewell—or so it seemed.

When the ceremony ended and the crowd dispersed, the retiree returned home alone, clutching an envelope. Inside was his gratuity—just enough to settle outstanding debts and perhaps repair a leaking roof. Beyond that, there was little else.

After 35 years of work, he owned no house, no business, and no tangible investments. What remained was a pension struggling to keep pace with inflation.

This story is not an isolated case. It reflects the lived reality of millions of Nigerians who work diligently, remain loyal to their employers, and rarely miss a day on the job—yet retire into financial uncertainty.

Experts say the problem is not hard work, but a lack of financial literacy. Many workers equate salary with security, mistake bank savings for investment, and rely heavily on systems that are increasingly unable to guarantee comfort in retirement.

Meanwhile, others who embraced financial education early tell a different story. Small business owners who started modest ventures years ago now own multiple properties. Individuals who invested in land in the early 2000s now earn steady rental income. Some Nigerians who invested small sums in shares now earn dividends exceeding the salaries of senior managers.

The lesson, analysts argue, is a bitter but necessary truth: hard work alone does not create wealth—financial knowledge does.

Nigeria remains rich with opportunities. Affordable land, low-capital businesses, and income-yielding investments still exist. However, without understanding how to grow and multiply money, many citizens risk spending their productive years working endlessly, only to retire with regret instead of reward.

As the nation moves forward, the message is growing louder: it is time to stop celebrating long years of service without asset creation. Time to move beyond waiting for salary increases and begin building multiple income streams. Time to stop blaming the economy and start learning the rules of money.

Because when retirement finally comes, years of service quickly fade from memory. The question that remains is simple and sobering: What did you build?

As Nigeria steps into 2026, many are calling for a personal and collective break from financial ignorance—and a renewed commitment to building lasting value beyond the pay cheque.

By Prince Solomon Okorie (Kimono) – Guidepost News International

Members of the 1994 set of Government Secondary School (GSS) Okposi gathered in a show of unity and enduring friendship to celebrate with one of their own, Mr. Jacob Okorugo (aka Jericho), on the occasion of his mother’s birthday.

The event, marked by warmth, goodwill, and camaraderie, brought together classmates who shared fond memories of their school days while honouring the matriarch of the Okorugo family. The presence of the GSS Okposi 1994 Set underscored the strong bonds that have remained intact decades after graduation.
Speaking at the celebration, members of the set described the occasion as not only a birthday celebration but also a moment to reaffirm their collective commitment to mutual support, respect for family values, and lifelong brotherhood fostered at Government Secondary School Okposi.
The celebratory gathering concluded with prayers, goodwill messages, and expressions of gratitude to God for the life, health, and blessings of Mr. Okorugo’s mother, as well as renewed pledges of unity among members of the 1994 set.

Among the attendees are: Prince Solomon Okorie *(aka Kimono)* Mr. Justice Ogonnaya Omoke, Prof. Mbazor Omoke, Samuel Mmahi, Mr. Aja Mmahi and off course the chairman of the group Barr. Chima Agwu and the chief host Mr. Jacob Okorugo.

Upon concluding at Okorugo’s compound the group proceeded to Mr Henry Okorie Uneke Enyi’s compound to felicitate with him at his brother’s traditional marriage as shown of solidarity, unity and love. Over there they met other colleagues among whom are: the host Mr. Henry Okorie Uneke Enyi, Kingsley Agwu Okereke *(aka King best)*, Shaba, and host of others, the group danced together, it was indeed fun.

By Prince Solomon Okorie

Enugu, Nigeria — The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide, in strategic partnership with The Great Igbo Achievers Initiative, has confirmed advanced preparations for the highly-anticipated Great Igbo Achievers’ Legacy Day Celebration and the official unveiling of the Igbo Book of Records (IBR)—a defining cultural and historical milestone designed to honour illustrious sons and daughters of Igboland whose lives reflect excellence, integrity, visionary leadership, and impactful service to humanity.

The historic event is set to take place at Enugu Smart City, Enugu State, on a date to be officially announced.

The celebration will be proudly hosted and sponsored by His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, Executive Governor of Enugu State, whose transformative leadership has ushered in a new era of innovation, infrastructure advancement, and economic revitalisation across the South-East region.

A Celebration Beyond Recognition

The organisers described Great Igbo Achievers’ Legacy Day as more than an awards ceremony—positioning it as a movement for cultural renaissance, historical preservation, and value-driven national consciousness within the Igbo nation.

The event will bring together respected elders, traditional rulers, scholars, policymakers, industry leaders, cultural custodians, and global Igbo achievers, celebrating outstanding contributions across sectors including:

Governance & public leadership

Science, technology & innovation

Entrepreneurship & industry

Education & research

Arts, culture & entertainment

Humanitarian service & community development

“This celebration marks a defining moment in the cultural and historical consciousness of the Igbo nation—an enduring tribute to trailblazers whose wisdom, resilience, and achievements continue to elevate Ndigbo and advance global human progress,” the Central Organising Committee stated.




Governor Mbah Grants Official Hosting Approval

In a widely-commended development, His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has formally approved the hosting of the Great Igbo Achievers’ Legacy Day at Enugu Smart City.

The approval was officially communicated in Ref. No. GHS/332/XXXIV/284, dated 10 September 2025.

Additionally, the Committee confirmed that Governor Mbah’s exemplary achievements have been approved for documentation in the Igbo Book of Records, recognising him as a contemporary symbol of visionary governance and transformative leadership in Igboland.




The Igbo Book of Records (IBR): A Legacy for Generations

A major highlight of the event will be the unveiling of the Igbo Book of Records (IBR), a first-of-its-kind historical compendium committed to documenting, preserving, and institutionalising the legacies of exceptional Igbo personalities across generations.

Each entry will follow a structured biographical format including:

Full Name and Title

State of Origin

Brief Biography

Major Public and Professional Roles

Notable Achievements

Legacy, Impact, and Enduring Contributions


The organisers emphasised that inclusion in the Book is strictly merit-based, guided by verifiable accomplishments, measurable societal impact, and contributions that transcend political, religious, and social divides.



Nominations Now Open for the “Distinguished First Eleven”

As part of the Legacy Day programme, nominations are now open for the “Distinguished First Eleven Personalities of Igbo Greatness”—a symbolic selection representing pioneering excellence across diverse fields of human endeavour.

The public, institutions, and advocates of Igbo excellence are invited to submit nominations supported by authentic, verifiable documentation of landmark achievements and enduring impact.



A Call to Rekindle Igbo Excellence

In a joint statement, UNIEC Worldwide reaffirmed the initiative as a clarion call for unity, pride, and renewed commitment to the core values that define the Igbo identity.

“This noble endeavour seeks to rekindle the flames of unity, excellence, and visionary leadership among Ndigbo at home and in the Diaspora—ensuring that the legacies of our forebears endure and that future generations are inspired to rise to greater heights.”

A Historic Milestone in the Making

The Great Igbo Achievers’ Legacy Day is poised to become an enduring annual legacy—celebrating the richness of Igbo heritage while inspiring emerging generations to uphold the values of:

Industry

Integrity

Ingenuity

Communal responsibility

Visionary leadership



Media & Public Enquiries

Secretariat
Great Igbo Achievers’ Legacy Day
United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide

📱 WhatsApp: +234 816 460 0000
📧 Email: greatigboachieverslegacy@gmail.com
📧 Alternate: unitedigboeldersworldwide@gmail.com




About UNIEC Worldwide (Boilerplate)

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide is a pan-Igbo, non-partisan, non-profit council of elders and distinguished leaders committed to:

Preservation of Igbo heritage

Promotion of unity and moral leadership

Advocacy for sustainable socio-cultural and developmental advancement


UNIEC Worldwide provides strategic counsel on cultural, social, and developmental issues affecting Ndigbo at home and across the global Diaspora.




Issued by:
The Central Organising Committee
UNITED IGBO ELDERS COUNCIL (UNIEC) WORLDWIDE
In Strategic Partnership with
The Great Igbo Achievers Initiative

By Prince Solomon Okorie

---

---

NEWS COMMENTARY

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide, in collaboration with the Great Igbo Achievers Initiative, has announced plans to publish The Great Igbo Achievers Book of Records, a landmark reference compendium created to chronicle, honour, and immortalise the achievements of illustrious sons and daughters of Igboland.

Beyond a traditional publication, the initiative has been widely acclaimed as a cultural archive and generational legacy vault, aimed at preserving Igbo identity through structured historical documentation. The book will feature distinguished Igbo personalities whose influence spans governance, academia, science, technology, business, diplomacy, religion, sports, and the creative industries.

Scholars and cultural historians across Igboland and the global diaspora have described the project as a defining moment in Igbo record-keeping, offering a methodologically verified repository of excellence for future generations.

Chairman of the Central Organising Committee, His Lordship, Justice Alpha Ikpeama, underscored the moral urgency of the project, stating:

“Ours is a generation of record-making and record-keeping. As custodians of heritage, we must document those who have advanced Igbo civilisation—before time erases their footprints. This Book of Records is not merely a publication; it is a moral duty to posterity.”

Similarly, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu, Emeritus Chairman of the Southeast Traditional Rulers Council, commended the initiative as a safeguard of collective pride:

“This is a spiritual and cultural archive through which future generations will find identity and inspiration. A people who fail to honour their heroes will one day have none. This record ensures our giants will never be forgotten.”

From the academic front, Professor Chinaedu Nebo, President-General of the Great Igbo Achievers Initiative, highlighted the scholarly integrity of the book:

“This is the first internationally structured and methodologically verified compendium of its kind. It is comprehensive, inclusive, and intellectually rigorous. We are building a reference library that institutions and researchers will rely on for decades.”

Cultural analysts note that the book’s reception aligns with a broader renaissance in Igbo cultural consciousness, marked by renewed investment in language preservation, historical research, diaspora networking, and intergenerational mentorship.

Significantly, the publication is framed as a counter-narrative to histories dominated by conflict and marginalisation, instead spotlighting Igbo resilience, innovation, leadership, and contributions to global civilisation.

Organisers affirm that the book will serve as a living document, updated periodically to ensure that every generation sees its heroes recognised and preserved in history.

As expectations rise ahead of its official release, the consensus remains clear: The Great Igbo Achievers Book of Records is set to become one of the most important cultural milestones in modern Igbo history—a tribute to identity, memory, and global achievement.

Ndigbo shall continue to rise.
Our greatness shall never be forgotten.

---

For inquiries, sponsorships, nominations, or administrative support:

• WhatsApp: +234 816 460 0000
• Email: greatigboachieverslegacy@gmail.com
• Website: thegreatigboachievers.org

---

Issued by:
The Central Organising Committee
Great Igbo Achievers’ Book of Records

---

Guidepost News International

UNITED IGBO ELDERS COUNCIL (UNIEC) WORLDWIDE
OFFICIAL COMMUNIQUÉ

ON THE INVESTITURE OF
HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, IGWE DR. KENNETH NWAFOR ORIZU III, CON
AS GREAT GRAND PATRON OF UNIEC WORLDWIDE

Date: 28 December 2025

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide proudly announces and commemorates the investiture of His Royal Highness, Igwe Dr. Kenneth Nwafor Orizu III, CON, as the Great Grand Patron of UNIEC Worldwide.

This landmark investiture represents a historic chapter in the unified advancement of the Igbo nation. After an extensive, inclusive, and highly consultative selection process, His Royal Highness was unanimously affirmed as the most eminently qualified and suitably positioned traditional ruler among his distinguished peers to assume this revered role.

His Royal Highness’s royal reign—spanning over six decades of visionary leadership, stability, and service—remains one of the longest and most impactful in modern Igbo history. The celebration of his 62nd Ofala Festival, alongside the extraordinary milestone of 100 years of age, places him, by the sacred Igbo tradition of gerontocratic precedence, at the zenith of ancestral honour and authority. Exercising this revered privilege, His Royal Highness graciously accepted to serve as the pioneer Great Grand Patron of UNIEC Worldwide, in unwavering dedication to Ndigbo.

Throughout his illustrious reign, His Royal Highness has embodied the finest virtues of Igbo kingship—promoting peace, communal progress, enterprise, cultural preservation, and statesmanship. Under his royal stewardship, Nnewi has risen as a shining symbol of Igbo ingenuity, resilience, self-determination, industrial strength, and community-driven development, even amid national and global adversities. His reign continues to inspire generations across Igboland and the wider world.

The leadership and global membership of UNIEC Worldwide express deep gratitude and reverence to His Royal Highness for accepting this noble responsibility. We fervently pray to Chukwu Okike Abiama to sustain him in sound health, divine strength, enduring wisdom, and many more Ofala celebrations, so his royal counsel may continue to illuminate the path of the Igbo nation.

UNIEC Worldwide, united in purpose and voice, salutes and hails His Royal Highness as the pioneer Great Grand Patron, and solemnly reiterates its pledge to support, uphold, preserve, and advance the noble legacies of his royal reign and leadership.

Issued by:
UNITED IGBO ELDERS COUNCIL (UNIEC) WORLDWIDE

SIGNED:
Prince Solomon Okorie
Secretary-General, UNIEC Worldwide

ATTESTED BY:
Eze (Amb.) Chidi Nwosu
President, UNIEC Worldwide