The Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, through its Council of Igbo Business Leaders, has entered into a strategic partnership with the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) to foster economic advancement and integration across the region. This collaboration aims to address pressing issues such as youth unemployment and social unrest by bringing together key stakeholders for a unified effort.
During a meeting held in Enugu on Monday, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, Chairman of the Council of Igbo Business Leaders, emphasized the urgency of aligning investment strategies with the needs of the South-East. He noted that the region has suffered prolonged neglect due to historical, political, social, and economic factors, which have led to widespread youth joblessness and rising social problems.
Ohuabunwa outlined the Council’s mandate, which includes identifying and nurturing young Igbo entrepreneurs into major business figures, creating a unified voice for the Igbo business community, and developing markets within Igbo land. He expressed gratitude to Mark Okoye, Managing Director of SEDC, for promptly responding to their proposal and approving the meeting. He said, “This is the opportunity we have long awaited. We need to work with governments and development agencies to bring about enhanced economic development to Igbo land.”
Mark Okoye, in his remarks, stressed the importance of investment mobilization, diaspora and domestic networks, venture capital programs, SME development, capacity building, and advisory policy inputs. He called for a robust partnership to steer the region toward prosperity. “We must collaborate to ensure that our region catches up with others in terms of development,” Okoye stated.
The partnership between Ohanaeze and SEDC marks a significant step toward revitalizing the Igbo economy, with both parties committed to leveraging their resources and networks to drive sustainable growth and social stability in the South-East.