The Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, has challenged the Igbo to become more politically active and take greater interest in choosing leaders who shape their collective future.
Okonkwo spoke at the 10th anniversary celebration of De Pinnacle International Social Club in Abuja at the weekend, themed “A Decade of Excellence and Impact.” He was also installed as the club’s patron.
He observed that prominent individuals and groups in the South-East often invest considerable energy in determining who becomes a town union leader or traditional ruler but show less enthusiasm when it comes to electing governors, local government chairmen and other political officeholders.
According to him, political offices have a far greater influence on the region’s collective future, making it necessary for the Igbo to demonstrate equal commitment to political participation at all levels of governance.
Okonkwo clarified that he was not advocating partisan politics for social clubs. Rather, he encouraged civic engagement through the examination of candidates’ records, constructive engagement on community issues and informed voting.
He said concern for community welfare should go beyond philanthropy and fellowship to include a responsible interest in the quality and character of those elected to govern.
“If we are prepared to invest so much energy and influence in determining who leads our communities and traditional institutions, we should be equally prepared to ask the more consequential question of who governs the larger political jurisdictions within which those communities exist,” he said.
The airline executive also urged the Igbo to look beyond state boundaries, noting that Igbo communities in Rivers, Delta and Cross River states possess experiences, networks and resources that could contribute to greater regional cohesion.
Following his installation as patron, Okonkwo challenged De Pinnacle International Social Club to make its second decade more impactful through stronger fellowship, deeper service, wider partnerships and more visible contributions to society.
He noted that the resources for national renewal were not limited to government institutions and large corporations but also existed within the people, relationships and voluntary associations that make up Nigerian society.
“I accept that responsibility fully, and I look forward to playing my own part in helping Pinnacle translate its considerable social capital, fellowship and influence into even greater service to our people and society,” he said.
He congratulated De Pinnacle International Social Club on its 10th anniversary and expressed hope for an even more impactful second decade.
