Abuja, Nigeria —
The Igbo World Union (IWU), an organization championing the interests and development of the Igbo people, has issued an emphatic appeal to Igbo businessmen and entrepreneurs worldwide, urging them to "Think Home" and prioritize investing in Igbo land.
Through this call to action, IWU aims to rally the economic influence and resources of successful Igbo individuals across Nigeria and beyond to uplift their homeland.
This campaign, titled "Think Home, Invest in Igbo Land," emphasizes the potential of regional investments to create wealth, job opportunities, and sustainable development in Igbo communities.
In a recent address, Amb. Sir Mishak Nnanta, KJW, the Gburugburu Ndi Igbo Dum and President of IWU, highlighted the urgent need for Igbo investors to redirect some of their resources toward Igbo land to foster prosperity, resilience, and self-sufficiency. Amb. Nnanta acknowledged the thriving businesses established by many Igbos within Nigeria and in the diaspora, noting the incredible impact they have made across diverse industries. However, he stressed the significant and lasting legacy these entrepreneurs could create by dedicating a portion of their investments to developing Igbo land.
“Our goal is to harness the talent, wealth, and innovation of our people to transform our communities into thriving economic hubs," Nnanta said. “Investment in Igbo land isn’t merely an economic choice; it is a legacy.
By empowering our region, we give our youth a reason to stay, a chance to prosper, and an opportunity to contribute to our collective future.”
The IWU’s "Think Home, Invest in Igbo Land" initiative comes in response to rising concerns over economic stagnation and the decline of traditional industries within Igbo states. Many areas in the Southeast struggle with high youth unemployment, insufficient infrastructure, and limited access to essential services. These challenges often push young Igbos to seek opportunities outside the region, leading to a gradual drain of talent and resources. The IWU believes that investing in the region’s economic development can reverse this trend, ultimately transforming Igbo land into a competitive economic force in Nigeria and beyond.
Gburugburu Ndigbo Dum emphasized that strategic investments from Igbo entrepreneurs could stimulate business growth, increase access to quality jobs, and provide the younger generation with a renewed sense of hope.
"By nurturing growth at home, we not only build wealth but also foster a legacy that will inspire and empower generations. When our youth have access to quality education, healthcare, and meaningful work in their communities, they are far less likely to emigrate. Instead, they will remain and contribute to their homeland, which is key to our long-term vision."
The IWU’s plan for regional development covers a broad range of sectors where investments could make a profound impact.
The organization identified infrastructure as a priority, noting that improved roads, energy supply, and transportation systems could significantly enhance the ease of doing business in Igbo states. Reliable infrastructure would support industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and technology, making it possible for local businesses to thrive and compete at a national level.
Additionally, the Igbo World Union highlighted the importance of education and healthcare, sectors that remain underfunded in many parts of Igbo land.
The union encourages investors to support educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and vocational training programs.
By doing so, the IWU believes that Igbo land can build a skilled workforce equipped to meet the needs of emerging industries.
Sir Mishak Nnanta also pointed to the potential for growth in the agriculture and manufacturing sectors, areas where Igbo land possesses considerable resources and talent. He urged business owners to consider ventures in agro-processing, food production, and sustainable farming practices, which could contribute to food security, generate jobs, and reduce the Nigeria's reliance on imported goods.
Furthermore, establishing manufacturing plants for goods in high demand within Nigeria could create a sustainable production economy.
The Igbo World Union believes that the benefits of investing in Igbo land extend beyond economic prosperity.
They see it as an opportunity to shape a future where young Igbos can look forward to stability, growth, and success in their homeland. By creating a robust job market within Igbo land, IWU hopes would reduce the high rate of youth migration to cities and foreign countries in search of work, keeping talents within the region and fostering a culture of pride and community development.
The Igbo World Union calls on stakeholders, government agencies, and community leaders to support their mission and create a collaborative effort to maximize the region’s potential.
His Imperial Majesty, Nnanta concluded his address by urging all Igbo men and women to see themselves as stewards of their homeland, with an obligation to build and sustain it for future generations.
“The strength of the Igbo lies in our unity and resilience. Let us work together to create a prosperous future for our people by thinking home and investing in Igbo land. This is not just an economic decision; it’s a journey of empowerment, culture, and legacy.”
IWU’s "Think Home, Invest in Igbo Land" campaign represents a rallying call for a new era of economic self-sufficiency, pride, and collective responsibility among the Igbo. As discussions continue to gain momentum, many are optimistic that this initiative will lay the groundwork for an Igbo renaissance, bringing prosperity to the region and uplifting Igbo communities for generations to come.
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