Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has urged Igbo people to end patterns of self‑marginalisation, strengthen unity and pursue collective progress, saying internal divisions have held back development and opportunities for the region, sources say. The comments were made during an event in Enugu on Friday, January 16, 2026.
Soludo, a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), spoke at the Igbo Leaders’ Summit, where he emphasised that Igbo individuals and communities must work together to maximise political, economic and social influence. He said self‑marginalisation — where groups or individuals limit their own opportunities by withdrawing from collective action — has reduced the region’s visibility and bargaining power within Nigeria’s national landscape.
“We must end self‑marginalisation and rise to the full measure of our strength as a people,” Soludo said, stressing that unity and organised action are key to achieving progress in governance, business and social development.
He said that while Igbo people are known for creativity and enterprise, internal divisions have sometimes hindered collective advancement.
Soludo also called on Igbo leaders in politics, business and civil society to model collaboration and cooperation, saying that coordinated efforts can help the community secure greater influence in national affairs and attract investment to the region.
He noted that regional cooperation would strengthen efforts to improve infrastructure, education and job creation.
The governor said economic and political stakeholders must build strategic alliances both within and outside the Southeast to broaden opportunities for Igbo youth and entrepreneurs. He stressed that unity was not about uniformity but about shared purpose and mutual support.
Soludo’s remarks came amid ongoing discussions within the region about regional integration, representation and development strategies, with some groups advocating for stronger cooperation among states and communities to improve public services and economic prospects.
Observers say Soludo’s call reflects a broader conversation about identity, influence and participation in Nigeria’s multi‑ethnic political landscape, where regional cohesion and strategic alliances can impact policy decisions and resource allocation.
