Hon. Prince Ugochukwu Nzekwe, President-General of Orluzurumee has declared that Orlu will rise again as he rounded off a historic European tour that saw the Union establish and energize its presence across the continent.
Speaking during the inauguration of the Orluzurumee Grand Region Chapter in Luxembourg at the weekend, Nzekwe described the development as a strategic milestone aimed at uniting Orlu sons and daughters in the diaspora for collective action.
According to a statement signed by the group’s Publicity Secretary, Mr Cos Ukwoma and made available to INNONEWS, the President General said the support of the diaspora is critical in repositioning the zone for growth and prosperity.
“This is a new dawn for Orlu. With the support of our people abroad and the determination of our people at home, we will overcome every obstacle and reclaim our rightful place in the development of Imo State and Nigeria. Orlu will rise again,” Nzekwe declared to the cheering audience.
The newly inaugurated chapter—which unites Orlu indigenes across Luxembourg, Belgium, and France—is the first of its kind in Orluzurumee’s history. Its interim executive is led by Chief Osondu Ogazi, the Agbaegonkiti of Orlu, as President and Chief Tony Ebosie as Vice President.
In his address, Chief Ogazi expressed enthusiasm about the chapter’s mission to support grassroots development back home.
He stressed the importance of empowering Orlu youths through skills training, job creation, and industrialization, while also raising concerns about the security situation in the zone.
“We are ready to invest in Orlu, to build industries and create opportunities for our young people. But we must be assured that our investments will be secure. A stable and peaceful Orlu is the foundation for any meaningful development.
“We call on all stakeholders—traditional rulers, political leaders, youth groups—to work together and restore lasting peace to our communities,” Ogazi said.
Hon. Nzekwe reassured the diaspora chapter of his administration’s resolve to confront insecurity and restore confidence in the area.
He noted that consultations with key stakeholders and security agencies were already underway, adding that Orluzurumee recognizes peace as a prerequisite for development.
“We know that security is the bedrock of progress. Without peace, there can be no meaningful development. That is why Orluzurumee is engaging traditional institutions, government authorities, and youth leaders to address the root causes of unrest and build a safer Orlu for all,” Nzekwe affirmed.
The European tour, which began last month, saw Nzekwe revive dormant chapters, activate new ones, and strengthen partnerships with Orlu diaspora leaders.
“Our diaspora family is a reservoir of ideas, resources, and influence. Together, we can transform Orlu into a zone of pride,” Nzekwe said as he wrapped up his address in Luxembourg.
The event was attended by prominent figures including the President of Igbo Union Europe, representatives from various Igbo cultural organizations, and leading business personalities of Orlu origin who pledged their support for the Union’s development agenda.
