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Igbo Intelligentsia Forum, IIF, Pledges Support to New Ohanaeze Ndigbo Leadership
Igbo Intelligentsia Forum, IIF, Pledges Support to New Ohanaeze Ndigbo Leadership
Last weekend, the Coal City, Enugu State, was aglow with cultural pride and political unity as Igbo leaders and stakeholders converged to witness the historic emergence of Senator John Azuta-Mbata as the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex socio-cultural organization of Ndigbo worldwide. The event, held at the Ohanaeze headquarters in Enugu, attracted governors and representatives of the five South-Eastern states, as well as Delta and Rivers states, alongside members of the revered Imobi, dignitaries, and other key stakeholders.
The atmosphere was charged with optimism and a renewed commitment to advancing the socio-economic and cultural progress of Igboland. Among the distinguished voices at the event was Chief Joe Chukwuemeka Ikunna, Convener, Igbo Intelligentsia Forum (IIF), a Think Tank comprising highly cerebral Igbo professionals, scholars, business executives, and political representatives dedicated to the holistic development of Igboland.
Fielding questions to journalist at the media precinct of the event Chief Ikunna expressed profound admiration for Senator Azuta-Mbata’s pedigree, describing him as a seasoned leader whose track record in public service and private endeavours makes him uniquely qualified to lead Ohanaeze Ndigbo at this pivotal time. “It is a leadership choice that inspires hope and sparks optimism for a better Igboland. For us this is a time to begin rebuilding and reconstruction. Igboland has been ravaged by insecurity and lack of development in different areas. This is the time of renaissance and we can not wait to begin with this new leadership led by Senator Azuta-Mbata.
Chief Ikunna noted that Senator Azuta-Mbata has consistently demonstrated a passion for excellence and an unwavering commitment to the progress of the Ndigbo. His emergence as President General is not only a victory for Rivers State but for the entire Igbo nation which cuts across Anambra, Imo, Ebonyi, Abia, Enugu, Rivers, Delta, and beyond.
The IIF Convener further called on the new leadership to prioritise key areas such as economic empowerment, education, cultural preservation, and political advocacy. “This is a time to forge a collective agenda that uplifts the lives of our people, secures their future, and strengthen their voice in the national and global arena,” he added.
The event also featured remarks from the governors and representatives of some governors in the South-East, Delta, and Rivers states, who pledged their full support to Senator Mbata’s administration. The governors collectively lauded the new leadership vision, emphasising the importance of economic initiatives to harness the entrepreneurial spirit of Ndigbo. They urged unity among all Igbo groups.
Dignitaries, traditional rulers, and members of the Imobi also emphasised the need for a united and progressive Igbo agenda. Many highlighted the critical role of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in addressing issues such as youth unemployment, insecurity, and infrastructural development.
Chief Ikunna in his interaction with the press further reiterated the Igbo Intelligentsia Forum’s readiness to partner with the new Ohanaeze leadership. “As a think tank, the IIF is committed to providing strategic insights, policy recommendations, and intellectual resources to help Senator Mbata and his team succeed. We understand the magnitude of the challenges ahead, but we believe that through collaboration and a shared vision, Ndigbo can overcome any obstacle confronting them,” he said.
In his acceptance speech, Senator Azuta-Mbata acknowledged the enormity of the task before him, pledging to lead with integrity, inclusivity, and a deep sense of purpose. He agrees that this is a responsibility he should not take lightly. He pledged to work tirelessly with his team to uplift the socio-economic and cultural fortunes of Ndigbo. He called on every Igbo son and daughter to join hands with them in this noble journey.
The historic gathering in Enugu served as a powerful reminder of the strength and potential of Ndigbo when united. The palpable enthusiasm among attendees reflected a collective desire to see Igboland thrive amidst challenges.
As the curtains closed on the event, Chief Ikunna encapsulated the mood of the day with a rallying call: “This is a new dawn for Ndigbo. Let us seize this opportunity to build a future of pride, prosperity, and progress for our people.”
The event marks the beginning of what many hope will be a transformative era under the leadership of Senator John Azuta-Mbata and his executive team. With the support of stakeholders like the IIF, Nzuko Umunna, Aka Ikenga, etc, and the broader Igbo community, the future looks bright for Igboland.
COAS Launches Nationwide Security Renewal Mission in Plateau
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday led a high-level delegation of security chiefs to Plateau State, flagging off a nationwide security renewal mission aimed at strengthening civil-military cooperation and restoring lasting peace across the country.
The visit to Jos, the Plateau State capital, marks the first phase of a coordinated national effort to address persistent security challenges through joint operations, community engagement, and proactive intelligence gathering.
Governor Caleb Muftwang received the delegation, describing the initiative as a critical step toward stabilizing affected communities and reinforcing public confidence in security institutions.
Civil-Military Synergy Takes Centre Stage
At the heart of the mission is a renewed emphasis on collaboration between the military, civil authorities, and local communities. Speaking during the visit, Lt. Gen. Shaibu stressed that national security must be treated as a collective responsibility.
He urged citizens to support security agencies by remaining vigilant, sharing credible information, and complying with lawful directives, noting that effective security cannot be achieved in isolation.
Community Engagement as Confidence-Building Tool
In a departure from purely operational engagements, the Army Chief held direct consultations with community leaders and residents in Jos, reinforcing the importance of trust and dialogue in conflict resolution.
Lawmakers, including Dachung Bagos and Ladi Dangyok, commended the initiative, stating that visible engagement by top military leadership helps rebuild confidence among citizens and fosters cooperation.
Proactive Security Operations Underway
Operational updates were provided by Major General Folusho Oyinlola, who disclosed that troops under Operation Enduring Peace have intensified surveillance, intelligence-led patrols, and coordinated actions with other security agencies.
According to the Army, the approach is designed to prevent escalation of threats, safeguard lives and property, and stabilize vulnerable communities before crises emerge.
A Shift Toward Sustainable Peace
Military authorities emphasized that the Plateau visit is part of a broader, long-term strategy to transition from reactive responses to sustainable peacebuilding nationwide. The framework includes strengthening local resilience, ensuring justice, and maintaining continuous engagement with stakeholders.
Analysts view the initiative as a significant policy shift, reflecting a more inclusive security architecture that integrates community participation with military operations.
Call for National Unity
The Army leadership concluded with an appeal to Nigerians to reject divisive narratives and support ongoing efforts to promote unity and peace.
“The success of this mission depends not only on the armed forces but on the cooperation of every citizen,” the COAS stated.
The nationwide security renewal campaign is expected to extend to other regions in the coming weeks as authorities seek to consolidate gains and build a safer, more unified Nigeria.
IGP Disu Visits Plateau, Orders Tactical Deployment To Reinforce Security
The Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, on Thursday paid a working visit to Plateau State following recent unrest, holding strategic talks with Governor Caleb Muftwang on measures to strengthen security and prevent further disturbances.
As part of immediate steps to stabilise the situation, the police chief authorised the deployment of specialised tactical units to support officers already on ground across affected areas.
Governor Muftwang commended the swift intervention of the police leadership, praising the dedication and professionalism of security personnel working to restore calm. He also acknowledged the efforts of mobile police officers and lauded the leadership of the state’s Commissioner of Police, Bassey Ewah.
Both the Nigeria Police Force and the Plateau State Government reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding lives and property, stressing that enhanced collaboration remains key to restoring lasting peace in Plateau State, popularly known as the Home of Peace and Tourism.
Grace Nation Worldwide: A Living Reality – Dr. Chris Okafor
……“Miracles, Healing, and Deliverance Overflow at Grace Nation Services”
The Grace Nation midweek Prophetic Healing, Deliverance, and Solutions (PHDS) Service on 2nd April 2026 at the international headquarters in Ojodu Berger, Lagos, was a spectacular display of God’s power, marked by miracles, healing, and deliverance.
The God of Grace Nation continues to demonstrate His authority, breaking strongholds, healing the sick, restoring lost glory, and providing solutions to every problem presented at His altar.
Testimonies of God’s Power
One woman, previously diagnosed with a terminal condition and slated for a ₦4.5 million surgery due to inability to excrete, was prayed for by the Generational Prophet, Christopher Okafor, just a week after visiting the church. Declaring healing within 24 hours, she returned to testify to God’s miraculous intervention.
Another pregnant woman, whose baby was bridged and at risk, was located and prayed for. She returned to service with confirmation that her child is now well-positioned for delivery. Similarly, a woman booked for a C-section due to an overdue and poorly positioned pregnancy testified during the service that her baby is now properly positioned, ready for birth.
These testimonies underscore the truth: what God cannot do does not exist. Grace Nation has entered a new level of spiritual authority, and with faith, believers are witnessing the impossible become reality.
God Works by Principle, Not Gossip
In his sermon, Dr. Okafor emphasized that God does not operate on superstition, gossip, or social media pressures. His work is grounded in His Word, and it is through adherence to His principles that Grace Nation continues to flourish.
The Generational Prophet stressed that to enjoy divine blessings and fruitfulness, believers must remain connected to God’s Word, faithfully serve Him, and ignore distractions or side-talks. Focused commitment to God’s service guarantees alignment with His miraculous power.
Join the Movement
Grace Nation Worldwide is open for all who desire a life transformed by divine intervention. Weekly services include:
Sunday Service: 7:00 AM
Grace Nation Island Service (Ogombo): Wednesday, 5:00 PM
Midweek PHDS Service: Thursday, 7:00 AM
Attending these services under the ministry of the Generational Prophet ensures encounters with God’s supernatural power, life-changing miracles, and lasting breakthroughs.
Grace Nation Worldwide is not just a church—it is a reality where faith meets the supernatural.
By Sunday Adeyemi
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