A new era of Igbo integration and economic empowerment has begun with the launching of Igbo Bu Ike International, a Diaspora – based Organisation aimed at Reunifying Igbos Worldwide and promoting economic development in the South East Region of Nigeria.
Speaking at the Inauguration in Owerri, the Interim Chairman of the Organization, Chief Chukwudi Opara emphasized the need for Igbos to come together, Invest in their Homeland, and make the South East the economic Hub of Nigeria, and indeed Africa.
“The spirit of Akuruo Ulo, which means “Plough back the Wealth and Return to Base, is the driving force behind our mission,” Opara explained.
He noted that Igbo Bu Ike International intends to foster Unity among Igbos, promote Marital relationships within the Diaspora Community, and create a platform for Diaspora needs.
Opara stressed that there is need to conduct Local Government elections in the South East in order to foster even development, create job opportunities, curb insecurity and address the nagging mass unemployment prevailing across Igboland.
With links to the main body in the United States of America, Opara noted that Igbo Bu Ike International is poised to become a veritable platform for Igbo Empowerment and remains apolitical.
He urged members to be dedicated and committed to the cause and objectives of the group, and work towards a common goal of Igbo Integration and Economic Empowerment.
In his speech, Dr Chika Onu, a legendary Nollywood filmmaker and the South East Coordinator of the group, described Igbo Bu Ike as a non partisan, non militant and non aggressive Association of personalities working for the welfare of the masses in Igboland.
“We are poised for a new world, a Renaissance, a Rebirth, a Return to Learning, to Knowledge, and most inportantly to our Roots.” Igbo Bu Ike can change the Narrative of the South Eastern part of Nigeria,” Dr Onu said.
He explained that the Organization aims to show love, amass wealth, and plough all back to base, with the “Aku Ruo Ulo” Catchphrase and the Onye Aghala Nwanne Ya” Motif.
Coordinators will be appointed in due course across the States and Local Government Areas to mobilize and educate those at the Grassroots, on the group’s message and principles.
Here are snapshots from the event