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Chibuzor Alli
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has announced the emergence of Nze Fidelis Ozichukwu Chukwu as its new President-General. This was disclosed in a statement by the National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia, on Saturday.
Nze Ozichukwu’s appointment follows the need to complete Imo State’s remaining tenure of 27 days, which concludes on January 10, 2025. This development comes in the wake of significant losses within Ohanaeze, beginning with the passing of Ambassador Professor George Obiozor, CON, in 2022.
To address the vacuum left by Obiozor’s demise, the Imo State Chapter of Ohanaeze had earlier presented Chief Engr. Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu as his replacement. However, after his swearing-in on April 30, 2023, Iwuanyanwu passed away on July 25, 2024, and was laid to rest on November 1, 2024.
In line with the doctrine of necessity, Barrister C.J. Ihemedu, Chairman of the Imo State Chapter of Ohanaeze, presented Nze Ozichukwu as the nominee to complete the tenure. The motion for his adoption was moved by Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, Chairman of the Imo Council of Elders, and seconded by Chief Simon Okeke (Ochendo).
Eze Ilomuanya praised Nze Ozichukwu as “a cerebral thinker with sterling qualities.” Ozichukwu’s educational background includes training at prestigious institutions like Templeton College, Oxford University; Harvard University; the University of Bristol; the University of Lagos; and Galilee College, Israel. He holds multiple degrees, including an M.Sc and MBA.
In his professional career, Nze Ozichukwu has served as Managing Director of Nigeria Merchant Bank (NMB) Plc and Director at Inland Bank Plc. He was a founding member of the Technical Committee for Privatization and Commercialization (TCPC) and has held several other strategic roles, including National Vice Chairman and South East Zonal Chairman of the PDP. His contributions to society and the Catholic Church have earned him notable honors, including the Worthy Knighthood of St. Mulumba (KSM) and Papal Knighthood of Saint Sylvester (KSS).
The Imeobi Ohanaeze and other dignitaries welcomed his emergence, emphasizing his courage, integrity, and impeccable organizational skills. Among those present were notable figures such as Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State (represented by Prof. Chidiebere Onyia), Rear Admiral Allison Madueke, Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe, Prof. ABC Nwosu, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, and Archbishop Prof. E.O. Chukwuma, among others.
The Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Ambassador Okey Emuchay, described the occasion as “phenomenal in the annals of Igbo history,” appreciating the Igbo nation for its unwavering support during challenging times.
With Nze Ozichukwu at the helm, the Ohanaeze anticipates a seamless transition to its next President-General, who is expected to hail from Rivers State.
