OWERRI, NIGERIA — The Igbo National Council (INC) Worldwide has issued a communiqué following the Igbo Nation Political Summit 2026, urging greater unity and coordinated political action among Igbo leaders and stakeholders across Nigeria and the diaspora.
The summit, held at Golden Tulip Essentials Owerri Hotel in Owerri, brought together political leaders, traditional rulers, academics, youth and women groups, professionals, and civil society representatives to deliberate on the future of the Igbo Nation within Nigeria’s political framework.
Participants examined the current socio-political and economic realities affecting the region, with discussions centered on strengthening unity, enhancing political relevance, and creating a roadmap for sustainable development.
The summit identified political fragmentation as a major challenge, noting that divisions within the Igbo political class have weakened the region’s influence at the national level.
Delegates also observed a decline in the strategic positioning of Igbo leadership in federal governance structures, raising concerns about reduced representation and impact.
The absence of a unified political agenda was highlighted as another key issue, with stakeholders agreeing that lack of coordination continues to hinder collective progress.
Youth disengagement from active political participation was also flagged, with calls for increased mobilization and inclusion of young people and women in leadership processes.
Security concerns across parts of the South-East were noted as a major factor affecting economic growth and social stability in the region.
The summit further pointed to economic underutilization, despite the entrepreneurial strength of the Igbo people, citing inadequate infrastructure and limited federal presence.
Participants also emphasized that the Igbo diaspora remains an underutilized asset in both political mobilization and economic development efforts.
In response, the summit resolved to initiate the formation of a unified Igbo political bloc that transcends party affiliations and promotes common regional interests.
It also called for the development of a binding political charter to define shared priorities, values, and long-term strategic objectives.
The INC was mandated to intensify advocacy for fairness, equity, and inclusivity in national affairs, particularly regarding representation and resource allocation.
Delegates encouraged stronger political participation among Igbo youths and women, alongside the creation of strategic alliances with other regions based on mutual respect and national unity.
The summit further recommended collaboration with relevant authorities to address security challenges and restore peace across the region.
On economic development, state governments in the South-East were urged to promote regional integration, improve infrastructure, and implement investment-friendly policies.
The communiqué also proposed the establishment of a structured framework to engage the Igbo diaspora in political and economic initiatives.
Participants agreed on strengthening the institutional capacity of the INC as a central coordinating body for Igbo socio-political affairs.
Additionally, the summit resolved to make the gathering an annual event to review progress, foster dialogue, and guide policy direction.
In its call to action, the summit urged Igbo political leaders to prioritize unity over partisan interests and work collectively toward shared goals.
Traditional rulers were encouraged to continue providing cultural and moral leadership within their communities.
Youths and women were called upon to take active roles in shaping the political future of the region.
The summit also emphasized the need for large-scale voter mobilization ahead of the 2027 general elections.
It urged the INC to lead advocacy efforts aimed at addressing perceived marginalization and ensuring equitable development for the Igbo Nation within Nigeria.
The communiqué concluded with a renewed commitment by stakeholders to rebuild political strength, foster unity, and secure a more influential position for the Igbo people in national affairs.
The document was signed by Chilos A. C. Godsent, President of the INC Worldwide, and Chuma Ugocha, Chairman of the Communiqué Drafting Committee.
