KINGSLEY EBERE
The umbrella body of Igbo women in Lagos State, Ndi Adaigbo Lagos State, has congratulated Chief Chukwudi Chinye on his emergence as the new President General of the Igbo Speaking Community.
In a congratulatory message signed by the leader of the group, Chief Mrs. Vera Johnson Osuagwu, Ndi Adaigbo described Chief Chinye’s election as “divine, timely and well-deserved,” noting that it came at a time when unity and purposeful leadership are needed among Ndigbo in Lagos and beyond.
According to the statement, Chief Chinye has over the years demonstrated commitment to the welfare of Ndigbo through community service, bridge-building, and speaking up for the voiceless. The group said his track record in mediating disputes, supporting traders in major markets, and engaging government on issues affecting Ndi Igbo made him the right choice for the position at this critical time.
“We have watched how you carry the burden of our people with humility. We have watched how you speak for the voiceless, how you build bridges across communities, and how you stand firm for the dignity of Ndigbo wherever you are,” the statement read.
Ndi Adaigbo noted that the Igbo Speaking Community remains a strategic bloc in Lagos State, with members spread across trade, education, health, and entrepreneurship. From Alaba International to Ladipo, Computer Village to ASPAMDA, the community plays a key role in the economic and social life of Lagos. The group expressed optimism that under Chief Chinye’s leadership, the community will witness greater unity, development, and visibility both within Lagos and in dealings with other stakeholders.
Chief Mrs. Osuagwu, who leads Ndi Adaigbo Lagos State, outlined key expectations for the new President General. She urged him to prioritize unity among all Igbo groups, pursue development for Igbo businesses and institutions, and ensure that the voice of Ndigbo is heard in government policies that affect their daily lives.
She also emphasized the need for inclusiveness, calling on the new leadership to carry women, youths, and elders along in decision-making and to create platforms for dialogue that will strengthen the community.
“Igbonine! Anyi bu ofu. When one of us is affected, all of us are affected. Let that spirit guide your leadership,” she stated.
The Adaigbo also called on the Federal Government and Lagos State Government to carry Chief Chinye along in decisions affecting Ndigbo, stressing that development without consultation amounts to imposition. They noted that policies on trade, security, taxation, and infrastructure must reflect the interests of the large Igbo population in Lagos.
“To the Federal Government, to the Lagos State Government, and to all stakeholders: we present to you a leader who is tested, who is peaceful, and who is ready to work. Give him the support he needs. Consult him,” the statement added.
Ndi Adaigbo further called on all Ndigbo in Lagos to rally around the new President General with prayers, ideas, and partnership to ensure his success. The group said collective support will help the new administration deliver on its mandate and protect the image of Ndi Igbo.
“A tree does not make a forest. With unity, Chief Chinye will succeed, and when he succeeds, Ndi Igbo succeeds,” Chief Mrs. Osuagwu said.
She concluded by praying for wisdom, good health, and a peaceful tenure for Chief Chinye, saying the group stands with him in the new assignment and is ready to collaborate on initiatives that will benefit the community.
“Chief Chukwudi Chinye, congratulations once again. From all of us at Ndi Adaigbo, Lagos State, we say: Nno! Nno! Nno! Welcome to this new assignment. We stand with you. We walk with you. We pray with you,” the message concluded.