The leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Lagos State Chapter, has congratulated Chief Chukwudi Gift Chinye on his inauguration as the new President General of the Igbo Speaking Community in Lagos State.
In a congratulatory message signed by the Secretary General, Chief Robert Obasi, the apex Igbo socio-cultural body in Lagos described Chief Chinye’s emergence as the beginning of a significant new chapter for Ndi Igbo residing in the state.
Ohanaeze noted that for some time, there has been a need for a change of leadership and a fresh direction within the Igbo-Speaking Community.
“Your emergence at this important moment represents a significant new chapter for the Igbo Speaking Community in Lagos,” the statement read.
“We therefore, believe that your emergence provides an opportunity to rebuild confidence, strengthen unity and inject fresh energy into the affairs of the organisation.”
The group urged the new President General to anchor his administration on unity, inclusiveness, consultation and respect for legitimate structures.
“As you assume this important responsibility, we urge you to make unity, inclusiveness, consultation and respect for legitimate structures the foundation of your administration,” Chief Obasi stated.
Ohanaeze emphasized the importance of collaboration, stressing that no single individual or group can effectively represent the entire Igbo community in isolation.
“We particularly encourage you to work harmoniously with all recognised Igbo organisations and leadership structures in Lagos, including Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State,” the message added.
The group also advised the new executive to be discerning in its engagements and to avoid self-appointed individuals who lack legitimate recognition.
“We advise your administration to be discerning in its engagements. Avoid individuals who parade themselves as leaders without legitimate recognition, mandate or constitutional standing. The community needs responsible leadership, not self-appointed personalities whose activities may create unnecessary friction, confusion and division,” it said.
The Igbo Speaking Community represents millions of Ndi Igbo living, working and doing business across the 20 LGAs and 37 LCDAs in Lagos. With major markets such as Alaba International, Ladipo and Aspamda under its umbrella, the community plays a critical role in the state’s economy, politics and social life.
Community stakeholders say the counsel comes at a time when unity among Igbo groups in Lagos is needed to better engage government on issues of security, trade, infrastructure and political representation.
Chief Obasi acknowledged that the task ahead is significant but expressed optimism that the opportunity for positive change is even greater.
“Chief Chukwudi Gift Chinye, the task ahead is significant, but so is the opportunity before you. We are confident that with humility, wisdom and a genuine commitment to service, your administration can restore confidence and bring the much-needed fresh air, renewed unity and purposeful leadership to the Igbo-Speaking Community in Lagos,” he said.
Ohanaeze expressed hope that the new leadership will prioritize youth empowerment, business support, scholarship programmes and cultural preservation as part of its agenda.
On behalf of the leadership and entire membership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State, Chief Obasi extended heartfelt congratulations to Chief Chinye and his executive team.
“We wish you a successful tenure filled with meaningful achievements, peace, unity and progress,” the statement concluded.
“Congratulations, Chief Chukwudi Gift Chinye. Congratulations to the entire executive of the Igbo-Speaking Community in Lagos. May your tenure be a new dawn of unity, stability and progress.”
The new executive is expected to unveil its blueprint and begin engagements with stakeholders in the coming weeks.