By Gift ChapiOdekina

The Ebonyi State Association in Greater Manchester has held its first-ever Annual General Meeting (AGM), a development with national implications as it aligns with Nigeria’s broader push to leverage diaspora networks for development, education, and global competitiveness.

The AGM, which brought together professionals, students and community leaders, marked a major step in institutionalising the Ebonyi diaspora community in the United Kingdom.

 In his address, the President of the Association, Mr. Ndukwe  Ugwuocha, announced key governance milestones, including the formal registration of the Association as a Community Interest Incorporated Company (CIIC) and the establishment of an organisational bank account. 

“These steps will enhance transparency, accountability and position the body as a strategic partner in Nigeria’s development conversations.

A national highlight of the meeting was the formal admission of all Ebonyi State Government–sponsored scholarship students currently studying in Greater Manchester. 

The scholars beneficiaries of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s foreign training initiative were integrated into the Association to receive mentorship, welfare support and guidance as they pursue advanced studies in technology, innovation and other critical sectors.

Speaking on behalf of the scholars, Mr. Isaiah Nweze, President of the FON Scholars, lauded the Association for the reception, pledging that the students would remain disciplined, law-abiding and committed to academic excellence.

The Association’s Secretary, Mr. Nnenna Umoke, also urged the students to be ambassadors of the state and Nigeria, stressing that their conduct abroad carries national and diplomatic weight.

Ugwuocha used the occasion to commend Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for what he described as a visionary human capital development programme that aligns with Nigeria’s national quest for global competitiveness. 

He said the governor’s decision to sponsor students for advanced training abroad places Ebonyi among the states investing strategically in future-ready skills that can boost national innovation capacity.

Beyond governance matters, the Association celebrated a cultural milestone its successful coordination of Ebonyi State’s delegation to the 2025 Manchester Igbo Iri Ji Festival, where it showcased the state’s heritage on an international platform.

“This meeting is commitments to unity, diaspora engagement, and strengthening Ebonyi’s contribution to Nigeria’s global identity. 

“The Association will continue to serve as a bridge between the state, its citizens abroad, and the national drive for inclusive development.