Make Collective Interests Major Priority — Gov Otti Tells Igbos

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has urged the Igbo people to place their collective interests above individual differences and work together to advance the development of the region.

Otti made the call on Tuesday in Umuahia while speaking at the 2026 World Igbo Day celebration hosted by Abia State.

The event, held under the theme “Njiko Ka”, meaning “Unity is Supreme”, focused on the importance of unity, cooperation and collective action among the Igbo people in Nigeria and the diaspora.

The governor said the future of Ndigbo depended on their ability to work together despite differences in opinion, stressing that unity should not be interpreted as agreement on every issue.

He said the traditional republican nature of Igbo society allowed individuals to hold different views while still pursuing the common good.

Otti urged the people to avoid actions aimed at undermining others because of political, economic or personal disagreements.

He acknowledged that Ndigbo might disagree on several issues, including political and economic matters, but said such differences should not prevent them from pursuing shared interests.

The governor also called on the people to look beyond immediate political and economic considerations and take into account the consequences of their decisions for future generations.

He advocated dialogue, consensus-building and cooperation on initiatives capable of improving the wellbeing of the people.

Otti further identified education and the transfer of knowledge between generations as important to the continued development of the Igbo community.

He highlighted traditional practices such as apprenticeship and omugwo, as well as investment in children’s education, as areas that could contribute to stronger communities.

The governor also urged parents and community leaders to address substance abuse, violence and other social challenges affecting young people.

He said young people should be encouraged to develop qualities such as excellence, patience, knowledge and resilience as they prepare for opportunities in an increasingly global economy.

Earlier, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, John Azuta-Mbata, also stressed the importance of unity among Ndigbo in Nigeria and the diaspora.

He said young people had a responsibility to preserve the collective heritage of the Igbo people while contributing to their development.

The celebration featured presentations, cultural activities and visits to selected projects executed by the Abia State Government across the state’s three senatorial zones.