The World Igbo Congress (WIC), the global umbrella of the Igbo diaspora, concluded its 2025 annual convention in Quincy, Massachusetts with more than just cultural festivities; it provoked thoughtful reflection.
Held under the rallying theme “KOKOROKOOO: Igbo Bilie N’ura (Igbo, Wake Up),” the three‑day gathering in the United States drew delegates and friends from the Igbo homeland, North America, Europe, the Caribbean and Africa.
The event urged a revived spirit of unity, cultural awareness, and determined collaboration toward shaping a prosperous future for Ndi Igbo.
One of the Convention’s major outcomes was the resolution to establish a “Biafra Cenotaph and Monumental Park” in Alaigbo (Igboland), dedicated to the heroes of the Nigeria–Biafra War. WIC described it as a lasting tribute:
“This memorial will serve as a lasting symbol of resilience, a reminder of the sacrifices made, and an educational marker for future generations.”
Delegates also emphasized economic empowerment, declaring that only through reinvesting in Igboland can sustainable development flourish:
“Strategic investment in Igboland is the only sustainable path to rebuilding the homeland, empowering communities, and ensuring prosperity.”
Attendees were encouraged to embrace the concept of ‘Aku Ruo Ulo’, ensuring that wealth generated abroad meaningfully impacts the homeland.
A highlight of the Convention was the launch of the Igbo Federal Credit Union, envisioned as a central financial institution to bolster economic self-reliance, support Igbo entrepreneurs and serve as a hub for diaspora-driven development.
The WIC Convention expressed deep concern over rising Igbophobia, manifested in hate speech, targeted violence and systemic marginalization, both within Nigeria and across diaspora communities.
The Congress urged governments, civil society, and international bodies to take proactive steps in safeguarding Igbo rights and curbing discrimination.
Additionally, WIC proposed that May 30, the day of remembrance for the Nigeria–Biafra War, be declared a national holiday:
“This would be a step toward truth, reconciliation, and healing.”
They also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, noting that he has been cleared by courts domestically and abroad.
The Convention underscored the need for a cultural revival, urging Ndi Igbo to live out their Christian values, honesty, forgiveness and servant leadership and emphasized the importance of youth inclusion and mentorship in securing the future of the people.
Betrayal politics framed as “Uncle Tom” behavior or the “Igbo Political Judas Syndrome” was criticized as corrosive to Igbo unity and survival.
As encapsulated in the joint communiqué by WIC Chairman Dr. Festus Okere and Secretary‑General Sir Chris Ogara:
“With the Igbo Economic Self‑Reliance through Aku Ruo Ulo (extending wealth home), it is only by channeling our talents, resources, and investments back to Igbo land that Ndi Igbo can secure their collective future. Abandoning the homeland while enriching elsewhere is a betrayal of future generations.”
