The Ohanaeze President General, Senator John Azuta-Mbata has applauded the Council of Igbo States in the Americas (CISA) for its consistent efforts in promoting the rich cultural traditions of ndi-Igbo and in connecting with peoples of Igbo heritage globally. This was contained in his goodwill message to CISA in their just concluded 2025 Igbo World Festival of arts and culture held in Brunswick and Igbo landing site in St. Simons Island, Georgia USA the weekend of July 25-26, 2025.
In the message delivered on behalf of Ohanaeze President General (PG) by Diokpa Delly Ajufo of Anioma Redemption Group, the PG Senator Azuta-Mbata acknowledged the significance of the fiesta in showcasing the values of Igbo cultural heritage, describing the emotional laden reconnection and naming ceremony rituals bonding African Americans of Igbo DNA with their Igbo roots as remarkable initiatives.
The Ohanaeze PG characterized CISA activities as a classic resolved to uphold and immortalize the cherished legacies of Igbo worldviews with Igbo descendants in diaspora for stronger ties with their homeland. Senator Mbata further noted that Igbo diaspora remittances has remained the robust bedrock for economic development of the region as well as an inevitable pillar of survival for ndi-Igbo, especially in this hard times. He also expressed concern with the festering circumstances of insecurity in the land, and pointed out, however, that the current Ohaneze leadership is partnering with seven universities in Igbo speaking states for the promotion of Igbo language, culture and history. The PG finally called for constructive relationship with CISA and wishes her a successful festival.
Earlier in his address, the chair of CISA Board of Trustees, Onowu Abagana Regent, Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze extolled the rituals of commemorating the historic Igbo landing at Dunbar Greeks of St. Simons Island and called for concerted efforts in promulgating Igbo Cultural values and building an all inclusive sustainable outreach that connects all Igbo descendants lost in the era of slavery.
Also in her address, CISA President Dr. Mrs. Josephine Uzoamaka Aguoji welcomed all the attendees, and stressed the theme of the festival: “Reconnecting with our ancestors” who 222 years ago in 1803 did the unthinkable in overpowering their captors and decided to return back to Igboland from whence they came. This singular action according to CISA President resonated deeply with our collective memory and rich cultural heritage.
Earlier in the week, Cosby H. Johnson, Mayor of the City of Brunswick, along with the city commissioners proclaimed July 25 and 26, 2025 as ‘Igbo Landing Day’ in the city and welcomed all visiting the city from across the globe.
His majesty Eze Chukwuemeka Eri, Ezeora the 34th of Eri kingdom, the Royal Father of the festival did the cleansing and the reconnections rituals. The festival which witnessed intellectual and cultural displays brought together people from different countries that include Canada, South Africa, Nigeria, Dubai, Costa Rica, and different states in United States. CISA is thankful to Mazi Ezeoke of Njenje TV for the festival coverage. With the conclusion of this festival, CISA has added another milestone in its annals.
Chief Mathias Mgbeafulu
CISA Media & Publicity Director
