Through his extensive travels, Valentine Ozigbo has come to embody the Igbo wisdom “Onye njem ka onye isi awo mara ihe”—which teaches that a traveler gains more knowledge than even a traditional sage. His diplomatic mission, spanning over 32 cities worldwide, has proven to be a profound journey of discovery and connection. The European phase alone took him through 18 cities across 13 countries, where he engaged purposefully with diaspora communities. Throughout these meetings, Ozigbo focused on strengthening the vital bonds between the homeland and its global citizens. His primary objective was clear: to gather intelligence, understand public sentiment, and develop strategic frameworks for future development initiatives benefiting both Anambra State and the broader South East region.
Rome, Italy
The eternal city opened the European tour with two significant events: first, at Pontificio Collegio Missionario San Paola Apostolo, hosting the first cultural day of the Association of Nigerian Priests, Religious and Seminarians (NIPRELS) since 2018, graced by His Eminence Francis Cardinal Arinze and Archbishop Fortunatus Nwachukwu, followed by a virtual conference organized by Mr. Chineh C Uzoma, Henry, and Chinedu when the city’s marathon necessitated a digital pivot.
Frankfurt, Germany
The vibrant Nigerian community in Frankfurt demonstrated exceptional hospitality through Elder Tango Ugochukwu and other community leaders, who facilitated in-depth discussions about homeland development while showcasing the strength of German-Nigerian cultural integration.
Bern, Switzerland
The Swiss engagement began with a strategic diplomatic visit to the Nigerian Embassy in Bern, where Chief Chijioke Ani (Onwa) hosted productive discussions.
Zurich, Switzerland
The meeting in Bern was immediately followed by a well-attended town hall in Zurich that brought together various Nigerian associations and community leaders. Odinanwa Nanka did everything right from hospitality to organization.
Brussels and Antwerp, Belgium
The Belgian chapter of the tour witnessed an extraordinary display of community organization as participants moved from Brussels to Antwerp, where Eng. Emeka Nwaogu and the ASA Belgium leadership orchestrated meaningful dialogues in the welcoming atmosphere of Eng. Onyeka Ofoegbu’s residence.
Marbella, Spain
The Spanish leg of the journey was marked by an unforgettable welcome at Malaga airport, where Princess Ifunanya Nwose’s presentation of flowers symbolized the warmth and grace of the Spanish-Nigerian diaspora community’s hospitality. Chief Kingsley Ndibe (Udala) didn’t disappoint in hospitality at his residence.
Paris, France
The French capital’s Nigerian community demonstrated remarkable unity under the leadership of Nze Ugochukwu Obi, President of the Anambra People’s Association France, and Nze Austine Okagbue, who facilitated discussions about strengthening ties between France and Nigeria.
Nuremberg, Germany
The historic city of Nuremberg provided a second touchpoint with Germany’s Nigerian diaspora, further cementing relationships with one of Europe’s most established and influential Nigerian communities.
Prague, Czech Republic
The gathering in Prague marked a significant milestone in Eastern European diaspora relations, opening new channels for collaboration and cultural exchange between ndi Anambra and the Czech Republic. The presence of Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo, the Papal Nuncio to Czech Republic made all the difference.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
The Dutch-Nigerian community in Amsterdam showcased their exceptional organizational capabilities and commitment to homeland development through a series of structured discussions and cultural exchanges. Abada Iwuchukwu (Ado of Ado) displayed incredible hospitality.
Vienna, Austria
The Austrian capital’s Nigerian diaspora presented innovative proposals for homeland development, demonstrating their commitment to contributing to the South East’s progress through knowledge and resource sharing. Onwa n Uli and Francis Okpata took appropriate charge.
Gothenburg, Sweden
The Swedish leg of the tour revealed the growing influence of Nigerian professionals in Scandinavia, with Gothenburg showcasing their unique approaches to maintaining cultural connections while embracing Nordic integration. Thanks to Francis Igboanugo and team for their great hosting.
Malmo, Sweden
This is the second city in Sweden that followed the tradition of Gothenburg in richness. What made this special was presence of Philip Warren Gertsson, a freestyle football legend, and his wife. Thanks to Mr. Patrick Onyeneche, Mr. Humble Ezeofor, and Mr. Ikechukwu Anaeto for their hospitality and the resources put into hosting this meeting.
Copenhagen, Denmark
The Danish capital’s Nigerian community exemplified the successful integration of professional excellence with cultural preservation, highlighting the expanding influence of Nigerians in Scandinavian business and academic circles. Mr Arinze Anthony Chinwendu (Obinwanne Neni) who is the Chairman of Anambra Community in Denmark was an exceptional host.
Athens, Greece
The Mediterranean gathering in Athens demonstrated the far-reaching extent of Nigerian diaspora networks, with the Greek-Nigerian community presenting unique perspectives on cross-cultural collaboration and development initiatives. Mr. Cele Muoedu (Arachie) was yet another exceptional host and made our meeting in Athens warm and pleasant for all.
Warsaw, Poland
The Polish capital hosted a landmark gathering where Mr. Okechukwu Nwafor and Dr. Joseph Okonkwo facilitated crucial meetings, highlighted by a four-hour engagement with former Polish Ambassador to Nigeria, Her Excellency Joanna Tamawska, and included tours of one of the world’s largest apple farms to explore agricultural partnerships, while community leaders shared vital insights on infrastructure development and security challenges.
Manchester, United Kingdom
The tour in Manchester was splendid with active and effective leadership of Dr. Quincy Izu Chuka. The ambience appears to be best among all the venues we used and the level of engagement was rich and exciting.
London, United Kingdom
London brought with it a momentous weekend starting with the largest gathering at London’s Jubilee House, where unprecedented women’s participation and community engagement set new standards for diaspora organization.
The weekend was blossomed by the Igbo Ambassadors UK’s End-of-Year Celebrations, where the organization launched their “Southeast The Good News” Economic Blueprint and bestowed the ‘Beacon of Hope’ award, alongside honouring prominent figures including Peter Obi, Obi Cubana, and Chief Kenneth Ifekudu, while Ambassador Ugochukwu Onyibor Morah outlined the organization’s vision for diaspora-driven development and investment initiatives.
Many other activities followed including Holy Mass at English Martyrs London where the whole church prayed for me, the hosting of my Amesi Community in London at 042 Restaurant and many more. Special appreciation to all in London, especially Chief Kevin Njemnobi (Ebekuo Dike Okija) and Chief Teddy Ezeike (Ezeaghauche Igbo Ukwu).
