By Ejike Ikezuagu – UK.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK/Ireland last Saturday, November 15, 2025, held its general election, culminating in the election of High Chief Chima Oparaugo as the new President of the organization.
Chief Oparaugo, who previously served as President of the Imo State Union UK, brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record of community leadership to his new role.
He succeeded Chief Lady Aqueen Ibeto, who led Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK/Ireland over the past four years. Her tenure was marked by significant strides in organizational cohesion, diaspora engagement, and advocacy for Igbo interests across the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Chief Lady Aqueen Ibeto.
The transition marks a new chapter in the organization’s journey, with renewed commitment to unity, cultural preservation, and strategic advocacy for the welfare of Ndigbo in the diaspora, Ogene Ndigbo Newspaper gathered.
In his speech following the election, High Chief Chima Oparaugo reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the unity and advancement of Ndigbo in the United Kingdom and Ireland. He declared:
“From the very beginning, my mission is to work for the unity of Ndigbo in the United Kingdom and Ireland under one purpose, respected and visionary umbrella.”
Chief Oparaugo emphasized the transformative power of collective purpose, stating:
“When Ndigbo are united, we are unstoppable. When we speak with one voice, the world has no choice but to listen. And when we come together in purpose and in spirit, greatness follows us naturally.”
L-R: OkeNze Oguabadike, High Chief Oparaugo, Chief Lady Aqueen Ibeto and Hon. Ejike Ikezuagu.
His words resonated deeply with attendees, setting a tone of hope, solidarity, and renewed purpose for the organization. The new President’s message underscored the importance of inclusive leadership, strategic vision, and cultural pride as pillars for progress in the diaspora.
“Our task ahead is clear and urgent; to ensure that Ndigbo in this land speak with one unified, disciplined and respected voice” he said.
In his remarks, High Chief Chima Oparaugo acknowledged the challenges that have faced the organization in recent years.
He stated: “Divisions and conflicts have long hindered our progress, diverting attention from building our future, empowering our communities, and upholding the rich cultural heritage of Ndigbo.”
Chief Oparaugo emphasized that the time has come for reconciliation, collective purpose, and visionary leadership. He called on all members, past and present, to recommit to the organization’s founding ideals and to work together in unity, dignity, and mutual respect.
His message signalled a new chapter for Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK/Ireland, one rooted in healing, strategic engagement, and cultural pride.
He outlined his vision for a more inclusive and united organization. He announced that in the coming weeks, his administration will initiate inclusive consultations to ensure that every voice is heard, and every member feels welcomed.
He stressed that his leadership will be defined by unity rather than division, reaffirming that the principle of Igwe Bu Ike “strength lies in unity” is central to the identity and resilience of Ndigbo in the diaspora.
Chief Oparaugo pledged to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to restore and strengthen that unity, ensuring that the organization moves forward with purpose, dignity, and shared commitment.
L-R: Chief Lady Ibeto and High Chief Chima Oparaugo.
He reiterated his commitment to unity through sincere and inclusive engagement. He announced his intention to embark on broad-based consultations across Igbo communities, ensuring that:
“Every voice will be heard; every hand will be welcomed.”
Chief Oparaugo emphasized that his administration will not be a house of factions, but a home for all Ndigbo, regardless of past affiliations or differences. He invoked the enduring Igbo principle: “Our strength—Igwe Bu Ike—remains the bedrock of our identity. Together, we will restore it to its full power” he said.
His words beckoned a clear departure from division and a bold step toward reconciliation, collective purpose, and cultural pride.
He prioritises the unity and future of Ohanaeze UK/Ireland over personal interests and he is open to any constructive solutions for lasting peace in the organisation.
The former President, Imo State Union UK, Chief Oparaugo emphasized that Ndigbo across the UK and Ireland should take the lead in fostering unity, demonstrating peace, discipline, and sincerity by example. He noted this administration represents all Ndigbo across the UK and Ireland and affirmed his commitment to act independently and with integrity, as during his Presidency of Imo State Union UK.
The members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK/Ireland during the election.
Chief Oparaugo declared, “We are the children of the rising sun, and on this day, that sun shines upon a refreshed horizon filled with hope, togetherness, and determination”.
He maintained that “a divided people are vulnerable, but a united people are a force of nature” he concluded.
Also Read: Ohanaeze UK: Chief Oparaugo Nominated As The First Choice For Presidency, Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK
Chief Dr. Nick Chikwe
The outgoing President Chief Lady Aqueen Ibeto expressed gratitude to members, describing herself as very happy. She acknowledged the challenges she faced as the President and credited her executives for their support.
She thanked Dr. Nnanna Igwe, Chief Anthony Ajidua (Odogwu Abi), her Deputy, Dr. Ezinne Ezechi, and her husband Okenze Chike Ibeto for their support.
She praised Cllr Nneka Keazor’s work for the organisation and expressed gratitude to OkeNze Oguabadike. She was pleased that those who previously opposed her have now come to understand her.
She respectfully addressed those individuals who had previously expressed reservations about female leadership within Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK, urging them to now lend their full support to the newly elected President, Chief Oparaugo. She emphasized that the time has come for all members to rally behind the elected leadership in the spirit of collective advancement.
She further shared that her acquaintance with Chief Oparaugo is relatively recent, yet she has come to appreciate his commitment to the Igbo cause, his clarity of purpose, and his inclusive approach to leadership. In light of this, she wholeheartedly solicited support for his administration, encouraging all members to contribute constructively to the organization’s goals under his leadership.
Chief Anthony Ajidua, fondly known as Odogwu Abi, extended his heartfelt gratitude to members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK/Ireland for their continued dedication and unity. He reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the organization, pledging to always stand in support of its mission and objectives.
The members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK/Ireland.
In a spirit of solidarity, Chief Ajidua encouraged the current leadership to feel free to call upon him whenever his assistance is needed. He emphasized that his doors remain open for collaboration, guidance, and any contribution that would advance the collective interest of Ndigbo in the diaspora.
Chief Ebere Ndulaka Okwu was elected Vice President of Imo State; Chief Idika Amogu, Vice President of Abia State; Chief Dozie Nwachukwu, Vice President of Anambra State; Eloka Onodu, Vice President of Enugu State; and Stanley Worgu, Vice President of Rivers State. Other officers include Oluchi Walter (Treasurer), Uloma Amogu (Secretary for Education & Culture), Pamela Orabuche (General Secretary), Chizoba Ndaguba (Social Secretary), Bright Chukwumati (Deputy President, Rivers State), Modesta Onoh (Assistant Publicity Secretary), and Sobere Opusunju (Assistant Welfare).
The stakeholders that witnessed the election are:
Chief Vickman Ekwueme, President, Imo State Union UK, Dr. Nick Chikwe, President, Imo State Elders UK, Chief Lady Aqueen Ibeto, OkeNze Oguabadike, Hon. Ejike Ikezuagu, Lady Eby, Dr Mrs Ezinne Ezechi, Chief Jonny, and other dignitaries
The Electoral Committee members included:
Chief Anthony Ajidua (Odogwu Abi), Chairman Election Committee, Cllr Nneka Keazor, Legal Adviser/Secretary Election Committee, Prince Chukwuemeka Udonsi, Dave Okoro, and Chief Uche Osigwe.
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