Ohanaeze Ndigbo Urges Igbo Leaders in Diaspora to Return Home to Address Insecurity

Ohanaeze Ndigbo, a prominent Igbo socio-cultural organization, issued a statement on January 25, 2026, calling on Igbo leaders living abroad, especially elder statesmen aged 65-70, to return to Nigeria to contribute to the reconstruction of the beleaguered Igbo nation. The organization highlighted the negative impact of the prolonged absence of influential Igbo leaders on security, cultural values, and investment in the South East region.

Ohanaeze emphasized the importance of the presence of these leaders in mentoring younger leaders and fostering development in the region. The statement referenced the active involvement of retired leaders in the South West community as a contrast to the situation in the South East.

Ohanaeze specifically appealed to over 250 Igbo leaders, including 120 prominent figures and 130 others in the diaspora, to return and play a crucial role in reviving the region and strengthening Igbo identity for the future.