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The President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyawu, has voiced his commitment to spearheading a transformation in Igboland’s social and cultural dimensions.
Chief Iwuanyawu conveyed this message while heading a delegation from the group during a visit to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep Benjamin Kalu, in Abuja on Friday.
He stressed the point that it is essential for every Igbo individual, both within the homeland and abroad, to have a designated presence in the proposed international market at Onitsha, Owerri, and other strategic locations within Igbo land.
According to him, ‘we have decided that every Igbo man must have a market in Igboland. We are going to build an international market at Umuahia, Aba, Owerri and Onitsha’.
According to him, the leadership of Ohanaeze had formulated plans for an interstate railway system linking all Southeast states with Port Harcourt, Abuja, and Lagos.
He clarified that the initiative would be handed over to private investors, reiterating the urgent requirement for fully operational international airports across the Igbo states.
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According to him, Enugu and other states in the region were set to welcome the operations of at least one European airline.
As suggested by the report on agriculture from the commissioned research study he oversaw and subsequently received, it was revealed that 50 percent of the land in the region remains untapped.
He said, ‘The Gas plant at Aba will be touched. We have limestone and we can establish up to five cement companies there.’
According to him, cement is one of the profitable businesses in the country. One can make over 200 per cent profit.
‘The coal in Enugu is about the best. I am over 80 years old and I have seen there is hope, all hope is not lost. I have people like you who will take over.’
He pointed out that among all ethnic groups in Nigeria, the Igbo community holds the most significant Diaspora capacity, with Igbos dispersed worldwide. He projected that the Igbos would ascend to become a dominant global force within the next few years.
He pointed out that, following his decision to restructure Ohanaeze, the organization has successfully expanded its presence, establishing branches across the entire nation.
Regarding the escalating security crisis in the region, he appealed to the Federal Government to release Nnamdi Kanu.
He also reiterated that it is crucial to employ every possible means to secure his release, noting that, in his perspective, this course of action would alleviate the agitation and facilitate smoother functioning for the group.
‘Very soon, you can be coming home without fear. We are not poor in the southeast but our people have not been able to harness the resources.’
Rep. Benjamin Kalu, said there was need to work more to achieve success in the region, saying ‘if you work small, you get small; if you work big you get big’.
He ascribed President Bola Tinubu’s consideration of him for the role of deputy speaker in the 10th assembly to his profound dedication and tireless efforts.
