ISIALA NGWA SONS AND DAUGHTERS LAUNCH N500m FUND DRIVE FOR HERITAGE CENTRE IN ABA
In a landmark move aimed at preserving the cultural identity and strengthening the unity of the Isiala Ngwa people, the Association of Isiala Ngwa Sons and Daughters (Supreme Council) has launched a ₦500 million fundraising campaign for the acquisition of land and construction of a state-of-the-art Heritage Centre in Aba.
The historic event, held at the premises of the All Ngwa Cultural Organization (ANCO) along Industry Road, Aba, attracted a large gathering of community leaders, government officials, political stakeholders, business personalities, and sons and daughters of Isiala Ngwa from across the country and beyond.
Representing the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, PhD, commended the association for its vision, unity, and commitment to community development.
He described the initiative as a welcome and strategic effort that would further promote the history, culture, and aspirations of the Isiala Ngwa people.
Ajagba urged all sons and daughters of Isiala Ngwa, both at home and in the diaspora, to rally behind the project and support the association in achieving its objectives.
Echoing the association’s slogan, “Onye Aha La Nwanneya, Umunna Bu Ike” (Brotherhood is Strength), he emphasized the importance of collective action in driving sustainable development.
The governor’s representative further conveyed the state government’s appreciation of the association’s contributions to community development and assured members of continued support from the administration.
He noted that Governor Otti remained committed to fostering partnerships that advance community development and cultural preservation across the state.
Earlier in his welcome address, the President-General of the Association of Isiala Ngwa Sons and Daughters, Elder Uchendu Ahuruonye, expressed gratitude to God and members of the association for making the event a reality. He also appreciated guests and stakeholders who honoured the invitation despite their busy schedules.
Ahuruonye lauded Governor Otti for his administration’s developmental strides and for delegating his Chief of Staff to represent him at the occasion.
According to him, the governor’s presence through his representative demonstrated solidarity with the aspirations of the Isiala Ngwa people.
The association’s president explained that the proposed Heritage Centre became necessary because the Isiala Ngwa community currently lacks a permanent facility in Aba where members can convene for meetings and cultural activities. He described the situation as a long-standing oversight that the association was determined to correct.
He disclosed that the proposed complex would feature a modern event centre, recreational facilities, a library, a health centre, and other amenities designed to serve both the community and the wider public.
Ahuruonye expressed confidence that, with adequate support from government, philanthropists, and well-meaning individuals, the project could be completed within a short period.
He appealed to all stakeholders, regardless of political affiliation, to contribute generously toward the realization of the vision, stressing that the project transcends politics and is intended to serve future generations of Isiala Ngwa people.
Also speaking at the event, former member of the House of Representatives and All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Aba Federal Constituency in the 2027 election, Rt. Hon. Uzo Azubuike, applauded the association for embarking on what he described as a worthy and transformative project.
Azubuike reportedly noted that every major achievement begins with a bold first step and expressed confidence that the Heritage Centre would become a reality. He made a substantial donation toward the project and pledged continued support.
The former lawmaker further assured the gathering that if elected to the House of Representatives in 2027, he would explore avenues for attracting federal government support to the project.
He recalled his involvement in the development of Ovu Ndi Ngwa during his previous tenure in the National Assembly between 2011 and 2015 and promised to facilitate the completion of the facility while also supporting the proposed Heritage Centre.
He emphasized the importance of civic participation and encouraged eligible citizens who had yet to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration process.
According to him, active participation in elections remains essential for sustaining good governance and ensuring the continuity of developmental projects.
Azubuike also pledged to participate actively in discussions surrounding land acquisition and other aspects of the project, assuring members that the initiative would inspire similar developmental efforts across other communities.
In his remarks, the President-General of the All Ngwa Cultural Organization (ANCO), Elder Dr. Sunny Nwosu, who also serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Association and Chairman of the Organizing Committee, described the event as a significant milestone in the history of the Isiala Ngwa people.
Nwosu reportedly stated that owning a dedicated cultural and community facility was critical to preserving identity and promoting unity among the people.
While acknowledging the absence of some invited dignitaries due to unavoidable circumstances, he expressed satisfaction with the turnout and particularly appreciated Governor Otti for sending his Chief of Staff to represent him.
He also commended Rt. Hon. Uzo Azubuike and other distinguished guests for their support and participation, describing their presence as evidence of growing commitment to the association’s vision.
The ANCO president called on all sons and daughters of Isiala Ngwa, including non-indigenes and friends of the community, to support the fundraising effort.
He clarified that invitations to the event were extended broadly through various channels and urged anyone who may have missed the ceremony to contribute toward the successful execution of the project.
The event witnessed donations and pledges from individuals and groups committed to the realization of the Heritage Centre.
It was attended by several notable members of the association and community leaders, including the Vice President of the Association, Barr. Friday Chinyendu Eluwa, the Treasurer, Ezeji Chibudo Apollos, St. Moses Ogbonna; Hon. Precious Azuka, Stanley Ogbonna, Engr. C.C. Ukasoanya, Elder Prince David Nanna, and many others.
