Afenifere, Ndigbo Forum Meet To Strengthen Lagos Unity

CYRIACUS IZUEKWE 

The Afenifere Lagos and the Ndigbo Unity Forum held a joint meeting on Wednesday, July 16, 2026, to strengthen unity and peaceful coexistence between Yoruba and Igbo communities in Lagos State.

The meeting was attended by members from both groups, including community leaders, women representatives, and stakeholders, were in attendance.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of Afenifere Lagos, Chief Deji  Wellington    welcomed guests and members. He said the central purpose of the gathering was to foster unity between Yoruba and Igbo people and to dismantle divisive narratives that have, over time, been used for political and economic gains.

The Chairman recalled the long history of peaceful relations between the two ethnic groups in Lagos — before, during, and after the Nigerian Civil War. He noted that the goal of the forum is to restore the trust, brotherhood, and mutual respect that characterized earlier times.

The Chairman of the Ndigbo Unity Forum, Chief Nnaji Jonathan, expressed appreciation to the host and those present. He emphasized the need for a joint body like the Afenifere/Ndigbo Forum to serve as an early intervention platform to prevent misunderstandings and crises from escalating.

Chief Jonathan highlighted the exemplary relationship between Yorubas and Igbos after the Civil War. He cited how properties belonging to Igbos in Lagos were kept in trust by Yoruba hosts and later returned, along with proceeds generated. He stressed that the Civil War was not a conflict between the Yoruba and Igbo, but involved other ethnic groups.

Chief Wellington moderated the session, giving every member the opportunity to speak freely. Contributors shared personal experiences of harmonious relationships with members of both ethnic groups across Lagos and other parts of Nigeria.

Several members cited intermarriages as proof of deep-rooted ties between the communities. Speakers agreed that most tensions arise from political or economic interests rather than genuine ethnic animosity.

They reinforced the call for “Unity and Brotherhood,” drawing from the national anthem to underscore the message of togetherness and national integration.

Chief Nnaji Jonathan proposed practical steps to deepen and publicize the relationship. These include issuing regular press statements, and courtesy visits to leaders and government officials to brief them on efforts to keep Lagos peaceful for all residents.

Responding, the Afenifere Chairman disclosed that prior to the meeting, he had engaged prominent Lagos indigenes on the initiative. He further urged members to participate actively in their CDAs and to propagate the ideals of the forum within their communities.

Both Chairmen thanked members, especially those who traveled long distances, for honoring the invitation.

Both groups reaffirmed their commitment to the peaceful coexistence historically enjoyed by Yorubas and Igbos. Members agreed to work towards eliminating negative stereotypes and building greater mutual understanding. The forum will reach out to well-meaning individuals and government officials to inform them of the Afenifere/Ndigbo Unity Forum’s objectives. Members are to integrate the forum’s activities at all levels within their communities. Regular press releases will be issued to keep the public informed. It was also agreed that the forum will meet regularly to build better understanding.