Governor Francis Nwifuru of yesterday said that the emergence of Senator John Azuta-Mbata as the President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo would largely offer him an opportunity to unite and advance the interests of Igbo people as an ethnic group in Nigeria.
Nwifuru made this known in a statement issued and made available to journalists at Abakaliki by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr Monday Uzor.
He congratulated Senator Mbata and expressed the belief that with the experiences he garnered in various theatres, taking the organisation to yet another level of growth is not in doubt.
"Senator Mbata your emergence is a testament to your outstanding leadership qualities, dedication, and the confidence reposed in you by our people.
"This pivotal role offers an opportunity to unite and advance the interests of our ethnic group, promoting our rich cultural heritage, values, and aspirations.
"I am confident that under your able leadership, you will continue to serve as a beacon of progress, fostering unity, development, and a stronger sense of identity among the Igbo people," he said.
While assuring greater collaboration with the apex Igbo socio-cultural body, Nwifuru said: "Please be assured of my administration's support as we work collaboratively to uplift our communities and address the challenges facing our people."