In a historic move to foster unity and development among the Igbo people, the Igwebuike Alaigbo Development Association, a Pan-Igbo socio-economic organization, has outlined a series of resolutions aimed at revitalizing Alaigbo. These resolutions were unveiled in a communique issued after the inaugural Ndigbo Thanksgiving Day and Service, held across various churches and centers in Alaigbo on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 by Arch Bishop (Dr.) Isaac Nwaobia of the Anglican Church of Nigeria as leader and Comrade Godson Umelo the Interim Chairman.
The Thanksgiving Day, a spiritual and cultural milestone, brought together Igbo sons and daughters from diverse backgrounds to reflect on their shared heritage and future aspirations. The communique, which encapsulates the spirit of the event, highlights key areas of focus for the organization and its vision for Alaigbo.
A Renewed Commitment to Alaigbo’s Welfare and Development
At the heart of the resolutions is a pledge by Igwebuike Alaigbo to become more actively involved in initiatives that promote the welfare, peace, unity, and development of Alaigbo. The association emphasized the importance of collective action and expressed its readiness to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations to harness skills and resources for the region’s growth.
Support for New Leadership in Ohaneze Ndigbo
The communique also conveyed gratitude for the recent change in leadership of Ohaneze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural body. The association extended congratulations to Chief Senator John A. Mbata, the newly elected President, and his team, expressing confidence in their ability to lead the Igbo nation towards greater achievements.
Call for Economic Synergy Among Igbo Leaders
In a clarion call to Igbo leaders of thought, particularly those in political spheres, Igwebuike Alaigbo urged them to work in synergy to strengthen Alaigbo’s economy. The communique identified critical infrastructure projects such as the development of a sea port, modern rail systems, and aviation facilities as pivotal to the region’s economic transformation.
Mobilizing Civil Society and Religious Institutions
Acknowledging the vital role of civil society and religious institutions, the association called on these groups to abandon their “spectators’ mentality” and actively participate in the development of Alaigbo. The communique emphasized the need for these organizations to lead in the realization of the Akuruo-ulo vision—a philosophy centered on self-reliance, unity, peace, and safety within Alaigbo.
A Vision for the Future
The inaugural Ndigbo Thanksgiving Day has set the stage for a new chapter in Igbo socio-economic and cultural development. By fostering collaboration, celebrating leadership, and mobilizing all sectors of society, Igwebuike Alaigbo is paving the way for a united and prosperous Alaigbo.
As the Igbo nation looks to the future, the resolutions from this landmark event serve as a rallying cry for collective action, resilience, and a shared commitment to the values that define Ndigbo.