02/08/2025
PROF. PAT UTOMI ENDORSES IGBO HERITAGE DAY CELEBRATION 2025
One of Nigeria’s most distinguished sons and a renowned professor of Political Economy, Prof. Pat Okedinachi Utomi, has thrown his full support behind the forthcoming Igbo Heritage Day Celebration, slated for October 18, 2025, in Lagos.
Prof. Utomi gave his endorsement during a courtesy visit to his Victoria Island office by the Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Apostle Patrick Nwanze (Agu Anioma), and the Secretary, Chief Dr. Emma Emeka Anyagwa.
During the visit, Apostle Nwanze highlighted that this year’s celebration, organized by the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos Chapter, carries the theme: “Unity in Diversity: Celebrating Igbo Traditions and Heritage Excellence.” He described the event as a unifying platform for Igbo sons and daughters—both within Lagos and across the diaspora—to come together in honour of their rich cultural roots.
According to Apostle Nwanze, “The Igbo Heritage Day is a symbol of our unity and resilience. It offers a chance to strengthen solidarity, discourage divisions, and promote enterprise, innovation, and communal development. Through it, we reaffirm our commitment to Igbo cultural values while celebrating our achievements and societal contributions.”
This year’s event will feature two major components:
1. The Economic Rapport Summit – scheduled for October 12, 2025, aimed at advancing economic cooperation through strategic partnerships, dialogue, and idea exchange between Igbos, their host communities, and key stakeholders.
2. The Main Cultural Celebration – to hold on October 18, 2025, at the Police College, Ikeja, Lagos, showcasing Igbo traditions, language, attire, and performing arts.
The celebration is envisioned to foster a deeper sense of belonging and pride in Igbo identity, as well as to promote social cohesion and shared responsibility among Igbos in Lagos and beyond. It will also serve as a platform to spotlight innovation and entrepreneurship within the Igbo community.
The Economic Summit will explore pathways for sustainable development and peaceful coexistence by leveraging the strengths, creativity, and business acumen of the Igbo people.
In addition, deserving individuals—Igbo sons and daughters who have made remarkable contributions to the growth and image of the Igbo nation—will be honoured for their achievements and patriotism.
Apostle Nwanze also shared that, for the first time, the responsibility of organizing the event was entrusted to an Anioma indigene, a clear acknowledgment of the significant role Anioma people continue to play in fostering unity and development in Igboland.
In his response, Prof. Pat Utomi expressed deep appreciation to Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos for their foresight and commitment to cultural preservation. He praised the organizers for their inclusive approach and reaffirmed the importance of unity, heritage, and vision in Igbo progress.
He recalled his early involvement in the formation and growth of Ohanaeze Ndigbo at the national level and expressed optimism about the future of Ndigbo in Nigeria. Prof. Utomi also accepted to serve as the Guest Speaker at the event and pledged his full support to ensure the event’s success.
Highlights of the 2025 Igbo Heritage Day Celebration include:
Exhibition of traditional cuisine, clothing, artifacts, and customs.
Recognition of outstanding Igbo achievers in various fields.
Cultural displays, including masquerades, traditional music, and dances from across Igbo states and the host community.
Indigenous sports and wrestling, including exhibitions by specially-abled individuals.
Signed:
Dr. Emma Emeka Anyagwa
Organizing Secretary
Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Lagos Chapter
