By Alex Enebeli
Enugu, Jan. 3, 2026
The National Executive Committee of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has felicitated the President-General of the organisation, Sen. John Azuta Mbata, as he marks his 66th birthday on Saturday.
In the congratulatory message issued in Enugu by its National Publicity Secretary, Dr Ezechi Chukwu, and made available to newsmen on Saturday, the group described Mbata as “a benevolent and visionary leader.”
It also stated that Mbata’s tenure has been marked by “uncommon commitment, courage and an inspiring demonstration of love for the Igbo nation.”
The statement added that under his leadership, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation “has witnessed purposeful direction and renewed confidence, evident in landmark initiatives.”
It listed the initiatives to include the establishment of the Ohanaeze Professorial Endowment Chairs across the seven Igbo-speaking states to promote Igbo language and culture as well as the recent re-establishment and funding of the Alaigbo Stabilisation Fund, aimed at driving the economic renaissance of the people.
“Remarkably, within less than one year in office, his impactful achievements earned him a resounding standing ovation during the Imeobi Ohanaeze Meeting held at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, on Dec. 23.
“This a clear testament to his effective and people-centred leadership,” the statement added.
It also quoted the Deputy President-General, Prince Okey Nwadinobi, as saying: “Mbata embodies purposeful leadership and selfless service.
“His passion for Alaigbo is not merely spoken but clearly reflected in bold actions that inspire unity, hope and progress.
“As he marks this new age, the NEC and Ndigbo global by extension reaffirm their unflinching loyalty and total support to our amazing P-G as he continues to steer Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide towards greater heights.
“We wish him good health, wisdom and renewed strength in service to Alaigbo and humanity.”
In another development, the organisation, on Saturday, inaugurated a substantive President for the Enugu State Chapter, Chief Uche-Damian Obisi.
The group’s National Treasurer, Dr Peter Aneke, performed the inauguration on behalf of Mbata at the Ohanaeze Secretariat, Enugu.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Obisi replaced the late President of the chapter, Dr Okey Adenyi, who died in April shortly after his emergence in Jan. 2025.
Aneke said the inauguration was to fill the vacuum created by Odenyi’s death.
He said that the decision was taken after a meeting of stakeholders, where Obisi’s choice was ratified.
“We are very happy that this day was made possible and the newly sworn-in president will start from where his predecessor stopped.
“The lifespan of the tenure is just four years. So, he will continue for the rest of the tenure.
“The former president was sworn-in on Jan. 10, 2025 and he died while in office in April 2025,” Aneke said.
Also speaking, Mbata decried the misfortune of losing Adenyi to the cold hands of death.
The Ohaneze P-G was represented at the ceremony by the Vice President of the organisation, representing Enugu State, Prof. Fredrick Eze.
He described the inauguration as “a new day and a new beginning.”
In an acceptance speech, Obisi pledged to bring changes to Ohanaeze, given his wealth of knowledge and experience, serving humanity over the years.
“I thank God for this day because I have served Ohanaeze in different capacities; so I know the rudiments of Ohanaeze,” he said.
He promised to carry everyone along to advance Igboland, adding that through Ohanaeze executives in every community, they can know the needs of the people.
