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  • World Igbo Congress convention to spotlight Okpara’s Southeast economic legacy

    World Igbo Congress convention to spotlight Okpara’s Southeast economic legacy

    The World Igbo Congress (WIC) has announced that its 2025 annual convention, holding in Boston, USA, will focus on reviving the economic and development models pioneered by the late Premier of the Eastern Region, Dr. Michael Okpara.

    Okpara, who governed the defunct Eastern Region from 1959 to 1966, is widely celebrated as one of Nigeria’s most development-oriented leaders.

    His policies, rooted in agricultural modernization, industrialization, cooperative development, and self-reliance, positioned the region as one of the fastest-growing economies in sub-Saharan Africa before the Nigerian Civil War disrupted its progress.

    Speaking on the upcoming convention, WIC Vice President, Basil Onwukwe, said the Boston gathering would go beyond cultural celebration.

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    He said it would in addition serve as a platform for policy dialogue, grassroots initiatives, and networking among Igbo people worldwide, alongside friends from other African, Caribbean, and African-American communities.

    “The economic re-engineering of Southeast Nigeria from the Diaspora, in line with Dr. Michael Okpara’s vision, will dominate discussions at this year’s convention scheduled for August 29 at the Marriott Hotel, Boston,” Onwukwe stated.

    He added that WIC, founded in 1994 to champion the interests of Igbos in the Diaspora, is committed to building sustainable development linkages with the homeland.

    This year, one of its strategic goals is to capitalize the Igbo Credit Union Bank, an initiative inspired by Okpara’s cooperative economic model.

    “The time has come to outgrow the economic and political barriers confronting us as a people. WIC cannot fold its arms when it possesses a tested master plan.

    “We are rallying all and sundry to this convention,” Onwukwe said, noting that WIC’s Chairman of the Board, Dr. Festus Okere, and other leaders are mobilizing wide participation.

    Onwukwe, an entrepreneur and political strategist, stressed that the present nationalistic world demands that the Igbo harvest their global talents to drive socioeconomic transformation at home, with a special focus on building financial and political power.

  • World Igbo Congress sets strict entry conditions for US convention

    World Igbo Congress sets strict entry conditions for US convention

    The World Igbo Congress (WIC) has announced that only carefully selected and vetted Igbo leaders will be allowed to attend its international convention, scheduled for August 29, 2025, in New England, United States.

    The announcement was made by the Vice Chairman of WIC, Hon. Basil Onwukwe, who explained that the new condition is to ensure that only those who are genuinely committed to the Igbo cause are part of the gathering.

    “This decision stems from a growing concern over the misrepresentation of the Igbo cause for inordinate ambition from many quarters,” Onwukwe said.

    “While our people remain trapped in jails across Nigeria, many of our so-called leaders are only concerned about their interests and their families in Abuja.”

    He said the WIC Chairman, Dr. Festus Okere, along with other executives, has signed a formal agreement with the Igbo Organization of New England (IONE), the host group for this year’s convention.

    “This will be the largest gathering of Ndigbo in the Northeast of the U.S. in a long time,” Onwukwe noted. “IONE is a respected and well-organized group, and the timing of this partnership is perfect.”

    According to him, the President of IONE, Chief Bonny Chibueze, and Vice President Dr. Ubiem, have already set up a strong planning committee led by Dr. Joyce Nwosu and Dr. Ejike Eze, to ensure the success of the event.

    “These are seasoned professionals who understand the importance of promoting Igbo culture and unity around the world,” he said.

    The convention will take place at the 1000 Marriott Boston Quincy, a venue chosen for its modern facilities and ease of access.

    “We’ve picked a multi-venue arena with direct flights and shuttle services available. It’s first come, first served, and attendees are encouraged to use the promo code ‘WIC 2025’ for reservations,” Onwukwe added.

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    He described IONE as an organization rich in culture and knowledge, which has grown beyond social gatherings to become a hub for mentorship and entrepreneurship among Igbo youths in New England.

    “IONE does not tolerate any abuse of Igbo culture or unity. Their monthly meetings are now platforms for sharing ideas and helping our young people connect to their roots,” Onwukwe said.

    He also revealed that IONE has nearly 500 investment members and that the Massachusetts government recognizes Igbo Day as a public holiday, often sending delegates to join the celebration.

    The theme of the 2025 convention is “Igbo Ebilia”, which translates to “The Igbos Have Risen.” Onwukwe said it will be a global carnival of Igbo pride and identity.

    “This will be a convention no one should miss. It is a celebration of who we are and where we are going as a people,” he concluded.