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The 2026 Igbo Day commemoration by Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide reached its grand finale in Umuahia, Abia State, on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, with prominent Igbo leaders and stakeholders gathering to honour Igbo identity, heritage and collective aspirations while calling for renewed unity.
This was contained in a press release signed by Dr Ezechi Chukwu, Global Publicity Secretary, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, from the Office of the Global Publicity Secretary. The release noted that the occasion drew leaders from across Ala Igbo and the diaspora.
Otti, Nwachukwu And Azuta-Mbata Harp On Unity And Cultural Heritage
The occasion was chaired by retired General Ike Nwachukwu, CFR, who called on Ndigbo, particularly the younger generation, to embrace their cultural heritage, enterprise and excellence while contributing to the development of the Igbo nation.
Declaring the commemoration open, Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, who was the host governor, urged Ndigbo to place collective interest above individual differences. He stressed the importance of unity and cooperation in advancing the development of Ala Igbo.
In his address, the Chief Host and President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to strengthening unity among Ndigbo at home and in the diaspora. He said the theme, “Njiko Ka” meaning Togetherness is Best, underscored the importance of collective action towards a shared future.
“The strength of Ndigbo lies in their ability to come together despite differences in opinion, political affiliation, location or generation,” Mbata said.
He called for renewed spirit of brotherhood, mutual respect and collective responsibility. According to him, the future of Igbo people will be better secured when their talents, resources and institutions are harnessed towards common goals.
Wreath Laying For Igbo Heroes At Aguiyi Ironsi Cenotaph
A major highlight of the September 29 commemoration was the laying of wreaths at the Aguiyi Ironsi Cenotaph in Umuahia. The ceremony was held in honour and remembrance of Igbo heroes and heroines who made significant sacrifices in the history and development of Igbo people.
The solemn ceremony provided opportunity for leaders and participants to pay tribute to the departed. In addition, they reaffirmed values of service, courage, sacrifice and commitment to the Igbo cause.
Prominent Leaders Attend Grand Finale, Lecture By Moghalu
Among distinguished personalities in attendance were Prince Okey Nwadinobi, former Deputy Governor of Anambra State, H.E. Emeka Sibeudu, Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Prof. Mrs Uche Azikiwe, former Inspector-General of Police, Chief Mike Okiro, Archbishop Sunday Onuoha, Princess Gloria Akobundu, Ph.D, Iyom Josephine Anenih, Archbishop Chibuzor Raphael Opoko, Prof. Uchefula Chukwumaeze SAN, Rt. Hon. Ike C. Ibe, Prof. Ossy Nwebo, Chief Alexander Chika Okafor, Chikason, Rev. Divine Eches, Ph.D, Bishop Athan Azubuike and former Deputy Governor of Abia State, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu.
The September 29 programme also featured an interdenominational church service. Meanwhile, the 2026 Igbo Day commemoration had commenced the previous day, September 28, with a public lecture delivered by Prof. Kingsley Moghalu.
The Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Prince Okey Nwadinobi, gave the closing remarks at the grand finale, the release said.
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