Felix Mbata, Lagos state
Chief Livinus Okwara, Igbo visionary leader, philanthropist, and unifying force for Ndigbo worldwide, held a one-on-one discussion with the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Mbata, during the recent Ime-Obi meeting. The encounter confirmed his standing as an ardent elder in Ohanaeze and set the tone for his continued role in bridging Ndigbo with host communities across Nigeria. As Chairman of Rimax Computer Institution and Vocation Centre and SS Semion and Louisa College, Chief Okwara’s influence extends from youth empowerment to advocacy for Igbo interests at state and federal levels.
The Unique Model Magazine learned that the Ime-Obi meeting gave Chief Okwara an opportunity to engage with Igbo leaders who share his vision. Senator Mbata acknowledged his commitment and stated that he would be invited to join Ohanaeze delegations on visits to traditional rulers, governors, the President, and other dignitaries. Senator Mbata also affirmed that he has no objection to Chief Okwara serving as Nna Ndigbo of all Igbos in Lagos, provided the Igbo community in Lagos accepts him.
Chief Okwara attributes his position to verifiable impact rather than rhetoric. He said his work has ensured that Ndigbo in Lagos maintain a sense of belonging with their host community and other tribes, which he considers essential for peace and progress. His interventions include requesting amnesty measures similar to those granted in Rivers State to ease challenges faced by Igbos in Lagos. Through Rimax Computer, he has organized free training programs for Ndigbo and other tribes, particularly youths. He consistently advocates for federal and state-level programs that benefit Ndigbo and maintains that authorities respond positively when requests follow proper channels.
On national development, Chief Okwara expressed support for President Bola Asiwaju Tinubu, citing infrastructure projects that benefit the South East and beyond. He highlighted the rehabilitation of the Niger River and Calabar road corridor, improved road links to South Eastern states, and work on the Benin-Ore-Lagos route. He noted that the ongoing Shagamu-Benin road construction further demonstrates progress. Contrasting past and present, he said roads left incomplete under the PDP are now being finished under the APC-led government. He believes these projects, alongside improved state roads, create opportunities for Igbo youths when leveraged through partnership with the federal government.
His message to Ndigbo is centered on belonging, hard work, and peace. He reminded them that Igbos are present in nearly every state, often second only to the host community in population and enterprise. This presence, he said, makes it possible for an Igbo person to contest and win political positions anywhere in Nigeria. He urged Ndigbo to treat host communities with kindness, as peace protects their wealth, businesses, education, and access to contracts.
Conclusively, with recognition from Ime-Obi and Ohanaeze leadership, Chief Livinus Okwara steps forward as Nna Ndigbo in Lagos with a clear mandate. His approach combines peace with host communities, advocacy for infrastructure and economic inclusion, and patience for sustainable progress. From free youth training at Rimax Computer to lobbying for Igbo amnesty, and from supporting federal road projects to promoting mutual respect in the diaspora, his leadership reflects a father’s responsibility on a national scale. Pictures taken at the meeting captured the moment, and Chief Okwara pledged to remain active in Ohanaeze affairs at the national level going forward.