Abuja witnessed a major cultural and political gathering as more than 4,000 members of the Igbo community converged on the capital for the 2026 Igbo Nmanma Celebration, organised by the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, FCT Chapter. The event, marked by colourful displays of Igbo heritage, also featured strong messages of support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The celebration drew Igbo leaders, traditional rulers, professionals, entrepreneurs, politicians and diaspora representatives, underscoring the community’s influence and presence across Nigeria.
Former Imo State Governor Senator Rochas Okorocha described Ndigbo as peace‑loving Nigerians who continue to build bridges of friendship nationwide. He said the widespread presence of Igbo people had strengthened economic ties and fostered relationships across communities.
“Everywhere you go, you find an Igbo man building bridges of friendship and helping brotherhood,” Okorocha said. He conveyed greetings from the Igbo community to President Tinubu and the First Lady, adding that Ndigbo remained committed to national unity and active participation in Nigeria’s affairs.
Federal Officials Praise Igbo Contributions
Minister of Women Affairs Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman‑Ibrahim said she had developed strong relationships with the Igbo community and appreciated the support she had received from its leaders. She noted that political participation is driven by shared interests and urged Nigerians to work together toward common goals.
“I am proud to identify with the Igbo community. We work together, we win together,” she said.
Former Federal Character Commissioner Hon. Ginika Tor commended Ndigbo for their contributions to national development, describing the celebration as a demonstration of unity and cultural pride. She said the Igbo Nmanma Excellence Awards honoured individuals based on merit and achievement, not ethnicity.
“We are honouring some Igbos here, not because I am Igbo, but because we want to appreciate their best,” she said.
Tor added that the gathering offered an opportunity for the community to reflect on its history, present circumstances and collective future.
Ohanaeze FCT Leadership Reaffirms Support for National Unity
President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo FCT Chapter, Chief Andrew Ugwu Onowu Afulukwe, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and the FCT Administration for supporting the celebration. He said Igbo residents in Abuja were pleased with the administration’s engagement and highlighted their contributions to investment, business and economic activities in the capital.
Afulukwe called for sustained peace, unity and cooperation among Nigerians, stressing that the Igbo community remained committed to the development of the FCT and the country.
Awards, Cooperative Launch and Prayers for Nigeria
The event featured the Igbo Nmanma Excellence Awards, recognising distinguished members of the community and other guests for their contributions to society. It also included the unveiling of a new Igbo cooperative society, aimed at strengthening economic cooperation and empowerment among members.
Participants later offered prayers for the Igbo community, the FCT and Nigeria, reaffirming their commitment to cultural preservation, unity and national development.