Akobundu Urges Ndigbo to Unite, Embrace Industrialisation at 2026 Igbo Day

Former AUDA-NEPAD/APRM Nigeria National Coordinator and development strategist, Princess Gloria Akobundu, has called on Ndigbo to strengthen unity, harness their collective resources and pursue industrialisation as part of efforts to accelerate development in Alaigbo.

Akobundu made the call on September 28, 2026, while speaking as a panelist at the opening lecture and dinner of the 2026 Igbo Day Celebration organised by Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide in Umuahia, Abia State.

The two-day event, hosted by the Abia State Government, was held under the theme “Njiko Ka” (Togetherness is Best). The opening lecture focused on “The Igbo Charter and Development of Alaigbo,” with former CBN Deputy Governor, Professor Kingsley Chiedu Moghalu, delivering the keynote address virtually.

Akobundu urged Ndigbo to identify areas of common interest and build a united front capable of converting the region’s human and entrepreneurial resources into sustainable economic and social development.

She also cautioned against focusing on blame and urged greater attention to practical solutions, cooperation and collective action. According to her, unity should move beyond speeches and become a tool for economic transformation across Alaigbo.

The development strategist identified industrialisation, youth development and women’s empowerment as key areas requiring greater investment. She said progress in these areas could expand job opportunities, stimulate enterprise and create better prospects for young people.

Akobundu further linked the development of the South-East to Nigeria’s broader economic progress, arguing that a productive and prosperous Igbo region would be better positioned to contribute to national growth.

Her comments formed part of a panel discussion on translating the Igbo Charter on Strategic Engagement for National Development into practical programmes and measurable outcomes. Other panelists included Dr Friday Ohuche, Professor Ken Ife, Dr Joe Abah, Rt. Hon. Ike C. Ibe, Ihunwo Obi Wali and Dr Nkem Femi James, with Chief Enyinnaya Onukalu serving as moderator.

The lecture was chaired by veteran journalist and former Niger Delta Development Commission chairman, Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, while Moghalu’s keynote focused on moving the Igbo Charter beyond declarations towards implementation and measurable development outcomes.

The event attracted Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide President-General, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, who served as chief host, and Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Chioma Otti, alongside former First Lady of Nigeria, Professor Uche Azikiwe, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Chief Mike Okiro, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa and other traditional rulers, lawmakers, academics and business leaders.

The celebration continued on September 29 with the main Igbo Day activities, including a wreath-laying ceremony at the Aguiyi Ironsi Cenotaph, an interdenominational service and the grand celebration chaired by retired General Ike Nwachukwu.

Speakers at the events repeatedly emphasised unity, collective responsibility, youth development and the preservation of Igbo identity, reinforcing the “Njiko Ka” message that ran through the two-day commemoration.