Ohanaeze Lagos: Chief Leo Okafor Promises Unity And Cultural Reawakening.

BY GODWIN OBI

The newly elected President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State Chapter, Chief Leo Okafor, popularly known as Oba Ojoto, has expressed profound appreciation to members of the organisation for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to work relentlessly for the unity, progress and collective advancement of Ndigbo in Lagos State.

Chief Okafor said his administration would prioritise stronger cooperation among various Igbo groups and associations in Lagos, while deepening engagement with government institutions and relevant stakeholders to address issues affecting the welfare of the Igbo community. He also promised to champion programmes aimed at empowering youths and women through economic support initiatives, cultural education and community development projects.

Highlighting the importance of preserving Igbo identity among younger generations living outside the South-East, the new Ohanaeze leader stressed that the protection of Igbo language, customs and values remains vital to the survival and continuity of the race. According to him, Ohanaeze under his leadership would focus on cultural revival, economic cooperation and peaceful coexistence with other ethnic nationalities in Lagos.

Community leaders and stakeholders within the Igbo community have described his emergence as timely, noting that his longstanding involvement in grassroots mobilisation and socio-cultural activities places him in a strong position to reposition the organisation and restore greater participation among members. Many also believe his leadership would strengthen dialogue between Ndigbo and the Lagos State Government on issues concerning traders, artisans, professionals and business owners of Igbo extraction.

Widely respected for his ability to build bridges across ethnic and religious divides, Chief Okafor is regarded by supporters as a unifying figure whose cordial relationships with people from diverse backgrounds contributed significantly to the widespread support that produced his election victory. Observers say such qualities would prove valuable in a cosmopolitan environment like Lagos.

Before his emergence as President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State, Chief Okafor had distinguished himself as the founder of the Oba Ojoto Social Club, a platform established to promote friendship, mutual support and social networking among members of the Igbo community and other ethnic groups. Through the organisation, he spearheaded several cultural festivals, humanitarian activities and community-based programmes that promoted peaceful coexistence and social integration.

He is also the founder of the Igboezuo Development Union, a socio-cultural association dedicated to the promotion of Igbo heritage, language and communal values. Under his leadership, the group evolved into a respected platform supporting Igbo businessmen, professionals and families across different parts of the country.

Political, business and community leaders have continued to congratulate Chief Okafor on his election, describing it as a victory for experience, maturity and people-oriented leadership. Many supporters expressed confidence that his tenure would usher in renewed unity, stronger representation and greater relevance for Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Lagos State.

As he assumes office, expectations remain high that Chief Leo Okafor will deploy his wealth of social and organisational experience toward strengthening Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State and advancing the interests of the Igbo community in Nigeria’s commercial capital.