It was all pomp and panache when on Sunday 5th June, 2022 the Umunna Lekki Association a socio-political, economic and cultural interest group of ndi-igbo resident in Ikoyi, Victoria Island, Lekki, and Ajah axis of Lagos converged to fraternise and unwind.
The gathering which was at the behest of billionaire business mogul Chief (Dr) Chidi Anyaegbu MFR, (Okeiyi Amichi) held at the prestigious Villa Angelia, Ikoyi and witnessed a large turnout of the créme of igbo society including the Academia, Professionals, Media executives, Real Estate gurus, Business tycoons and the igbo intelligentsia representing vast spheres of human endeavor.
In his opening remarks, the Chisco boss whose cheerfulness couldn’t be hidden at the impressive turnout of people applauded the foresight of the progenitors of the association and commended their efforts in putting together such a laudable association which he believes will help foster brotherliness among igbos around the axis. In his words
“I decided to host members of the Umunna Lekki Association because I am pleased with their activities and the professional manner they have been conducting themselves. It gladdens my heart that even in distant lands, they are helping to propagate the igbo ideals of respect, hardwork, unity and strong bond of brotherhood- the igwebuike spirit”
Also speaking at the event, the President of Umunna Lekki Association Dr. Ikem Umeh-Ezeoke said the association is opened to igbo professionals living or working along the Victoria Island – Lekki – Ikoyi – Ajah corridor.
He said the objectives of the Umunna Lekki Association amongst others include the promotion of igbo culture and ideals and also for business networking purposes. He noted that the association is drawing up a mentorship program that will benefit and empower young igbo entrepreneurs and professionals. While notifying the gathering of events and seminars slated for 1st October 2022 and December 2022, he said the association had in the past intervened in critical national issues affecting igbos and assured of the association’s resolve to continue to do so.
He noted that since there was a high presence of igbos in the axis, it became necessary to create a rallying point for them that will also serve to build and sustain mutual relationship between igbos and their host communities.
Dr. Uche Nworah, the guest speaker in his own address to the congregation titled ‘Akuluouno Model and the Socio-Cultural and Economic Development of Igbo land’ appealed to the diaspora community to increase their investments in the homeland as the drive for the Development of Igbo land intensifies.
He stressed that it is only through such investments that unemployment, kidnapping, armed robbery and other vices bedeviling igbo land will not only be addressed but eradicated. He said a lot depends on the economic viability of Igboland. He further decried the continuous rise in emigration being experienced by igboland and urged repatriation of not just business investments but also human capital and professional skills as the region requires boots on ground.
According to him, until the southeast region is developed, activities of criminals will continue unabated leading to everyone becoming vulnerable. He also urged frequent engagement of southeast leaders in the quest to finding a lasting solution to the insecurity challenges of the region. Regarding the political process, as we edge towards the 2023 election year, he advised leaders of the south-eastern region to tone down their divisiveness which has become very glaring and instead forge a common front noting that’s the only way to achieve the yearnings of the igbos. He called on the diaspora community to be a part of the electoral process.
The spectacular event culminated in the presentation of Award of Appreciation to the host Chief (Dr) Chidi Anyaegbu
Meanwhile Lekki Times editorial board mourns late University don, Dr. Mike Okolo
