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Ohanaeze FCT Condole With Chairman Ndieze FCT Over Iwuanyanwu’s Death

Published

1 year ago

September 2, 2024

By Uche Onyeali

Federal Capital Territory, FCT, chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has commiserated with the president of Ndieze in the 19 northern states and the FCT, HRH Eze Uche Egenti, over the demise of the president-general of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Engr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.

Chief Iwuanyanwu, an astute politician and industrialist, passed away on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at the age of 82.

Speaking during a condolence visit on Saturday to Eze Egenti, who is a nephew to the late Chief Iwuanyanwu and deputy president of Ndieze in Diaspora, the president of Ohanaeze FCT, Hon. Eze Primacy Okadigbo described Chief Iwuanyanwu’s leadership of Ohanaeze World as a beacon of hope for Ndigbo.

Okadigbo eulogised Iwuanyanwu’s commitment to human capital development, peace building and conflict resolution was unwavering, noting that the deceased worked tirelessly to bring together people from diverse backgrounds to foster understanding and cooperation for nation building.

“On behalf of Ohanaeze Ndigbo FCT and our allies, the non-indigenous and indigenous residents of FCT, West African Action Network Against Small Arms, WAANSA, of ECOWAS Commission and civil society organisations, we are here today to commiserate and express our deepest condolences to you and your family on the passing of Chief Engineer Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, a great son of Igboland and a champion of peace and unity.
“His leadership as president of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide was a beacon of hope and inspiration to us all.

“Chief Iwuanyanwu’s commitment to human capital development, peace building and conflict resolution was unwavering.

“He worked tirelessly to bring together people from diverse backgrounds, fostering understanding and cooperation. His legacy will continue to inspire us to strive for a more united and peaceful society.

“We stand in solidarity with you, Your Royal Highness, and your family during this difficult time. May the memories of Chief Iwuanyanwu’s life and work bring comfort and strength to you all.

“May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to guide us towards a brighter future.

“Your Royal Highness, the members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo FCT and our allies, which also include the National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, Yoruba Youths, FCT, Niger Delta groups and other affiliate members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo FCT, have also come to express our heartfelt appreciation and solidarity with you for your unwavering commitment to peace and unity amongst all residents of FCT Abuja and also your continuous commitment of being the rallying point of Ndigbo in 19 northern states and FCT as the chairman of Ndieze 19 northern states and FCT, as well as the deputy president, Ndieze in Diaspora Worldwide.

“Your leadership and support during the recent protests which started on August 1st, 2024, were instrumental in maintaining peace and harmony in our community. Your wise counsel and engagement with various stakeholders helped to diffuse tensions and promote understanding.

“We are grateful for your dedication to building bridges between indigenous and non-indigenous residents, fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness. Your efforts have made a significant impact, and we are proud to stand with you in promoting peace and unity.

“Please accept our deepest appreciation for your selfless service to our community. We pledge to continue working together to build a more harmonious and inclusive society,” Okadigbo said in the group’s condolence message.

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Ogunlesi backs Tinubu reforms as FIRS chairman Adedeji highlights export-led economy

Published

10 hours ago

October 6, 2025

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

After a high-level meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja, Nigerian-born global investor Adebayo Ogunlesi expressed renewed confidence in the country’s economic reforms, indicating potential mega investments across energy, aviation, and port sectors.

He was joined in that optimism by Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), who stressed that the reforms were laying the groundwork for an export-driven economy.

Speaking to journalists after the closed-door meeting, Ogunlesi praised the sweeping policy changes under Tinubu’s administration, including the removal of subsidies, tax reforms, and the revival of a refinery already exporting aviation fuel.

“We had an excellent meeting where we discussed how to put Nigeria front and center for international investment. The President was very encouraging, and we shared useful suggestions on driving economic growth,” Ogunlesi said.
Although he declined to reveal specific details, Ogunlesi confirmed that his firm is actively investing in Nigeria and assessing new opportunities.

“Watch this space. Nigeria is not yet the most exciting investment destination, but that’s what we are working on,” he teased.

Pressed on the sectors of interest, Ogunlesi highlighted energy, gas, aviation, ports, and renewables. Drawing on his firm’s experience with LNG projects in Texas and Australia, he noted Nigeria’s massive untapped gas reserves.

On aviation, he acknowledged his reputation as “the guy who bought Gatwick Airport” and signaled interest in similar ventures locally.
He also admitted that one of his companies operates ports in Cotonou and Lomé but none in Nigeria, a point Tinubu reportedly challenged him on.

“He forgave me but said, ‘you have to bring port investment to Nigeria,’” Ogunlesi recounted with a smile.

International investor Hakeem Bello-Osagie, who was also present, underscored the importance of diaspora participation in Nigeria’s growth story.
“When Nigerians at home and abroad invest in Nigeria, it sends a strong signal to the world,” he said, lauding Tinubu’s policies for making the country “investable.”

Echoing the sentiment, FIRS chairman Adedeji described the reforms as the foundation for an export-led economy.

“We’ve done the fundamentals, and now it is time to deliver growth,” he said.

With global players signaling confidence, the momentum for Nigeria’s economic repositioning is gaining ground, setting the stage for transformative investments in key industries.

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