The Ndigbo community in Lagos came together in a colourful and spirit-filled celebration as the Lagos State Chapter of Ndigbo hosted the Igbo Heritage Celebration 2025 at the Police College, Ikeja.

This year’s edition, themed “Unity in Diversity, Celebrating Igbo Tradition and Excellence,” drew thousands of participants and showcased the enduring pride of the Igbo people in preserving their rich cultural heritage while promoting unity and harmony among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups.

Organised under the leadership of Apostle Patrick A. Nwanze (Agu Anioma), Chairman of the Planning Committee, the celebration featured traditional music, dance, art, fashion, and authentic Igbo cuisine.
The event highlighted the importance of preserving cultural values and strengthening inter-ethnic understanding across communities.

As part of the celebration’s forward-looking vision, Apostle Nwanze announced plans to establish an Igbo Language Learning Centre in Lagos to ensure language sustainability and heritage transmission through the youths to the next generation.

This initiative, he said, will serve as a beacon of cultural preservation and pride among young Igbos.

Speeches of Unity and Cultural Pride

The Chairman of the Day, High Chief Professor Adaobi Patricia Ugbomeh, an Aquatic Ecologist from Rivers State University, represented the Speaker of the Day, who was unavoidably absent.

In her insightful address, Prof. Ugbomeh spoke on the essence of community security and its relationship to economic development and peaceful coexistence. She emphasised that assurance of community security encourages the Akurulu growing ideology — a concept rooted in the belief that collective peace and protection stimulate local productivity, unity, and sustainable community growth.

She further urged Ndigbo in Lagos and across Nigeria to remain steadfast in promoting cultural identity, social harmony, and economic cooperation, noting that “the pride of every Igbo person begins with unity and shared responsibility.”

Prof. Pat Utomi, in his address delivered through his able representative, Dr Ken Mordi (Ogboshi Nabu), expressed joy at the active participation of both the host community and the northern community in the celebration with Ndigbo. He noted that such inclusive participation reflects the true spirit of Nigeria’s unity, adding that “unity is the soul of progress in every community.”

Distinguished guests included Senator Ned Nwoko (represented by Hon. Barr. Tonni Osita Oganah), Chief Robert Obasi, Chief Everest Nzonweke, and Chief Barr. Uba, Emeka Egbo, and others, whose presence added prestige and significance to the event.

Cultural Highlights and Performances

The day’s cultural highlights included a traditional dance performance by seven maidens, symbolising unity among the seven Igbo-speaking states, and a vibrant dance competition that ended in jubilation as the winning group received a live goat, a timeless symbol of joy, abundance, and communal festivity.

The venue was adorned with colourful traditional attire, handcrafted art, and the aroma of beloved Igbo delicacies, reflecting the beauty and vitality of the people’s heritage.

International Breweries PLC graced the occasion as a major sponsor, supporting the event’s logistics and festivities. The Apex Association of Anioma Indigenes Inc. also demonstrated the spirit of Igboness by sharing gifts with participants — a gesture that embodied generosity, unity, and cultural pride.

Support and Acknowledgements

In his closing remarks, Apostle Patrick A. Nwanze (Agu Anioma) expressed heartfelt appreciation to all guests, sponsors, and community leaders for their unwavering support and commitment to sustaining the annual celebration.

> “Each year, this festival grows stronger — reminding us that our tradition defines us, our diversity unites us, and our excellence inspires us all,” he said.

The Igbo Heritage Celebration continues to serve as a vital platform for Ndigbo in Lagos to showcase their culture, foster friendship, and strengthen unity within the state’s diverse communities.

About Ndigbo Lagos

Ndigbo Lagos is the umbrella body representing the Igbo community residing in Lagos State. The organisation is dedicated to promoting unity, peace, and cultural advancement among Igbos, while fostering mutual respect and cooperation with other ethnic groups in the state. Through community development projects, cultural events, and advocacy, Ndigbo Lagos continues to uphold the values of integrity, hard work, and excellence that define the Igbo people.