Ohanaeze Honours 1977 Rangers Heroes with ₦19m, Unveils Major Push for Igbo Cultural Renaissance

The meeting was described as a moment of renewal, continuity, and collective resolve to secure lasting relevance and generational impact for the Igbo people.

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has awarded ₦19 million to surviving players of Enugu Rangers who won the 1977 African Cup of Champions, in recognition of their historic contribution to Igbo pride and Nigerian football. The announcement was made on Tuesday by John Azuta-Mbata, President-General of Ohanaeze, during the Imeobi meeting held at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, where he presented his one-year stewardship report. Azuta-Mbata explained that the ₦1 million paid to each of the 19 players was compensation for the unfulfilled ₦25,000 reward promised by the Federal Government nearly five decades ago. “This gesture reinforces our belief in sports as a unifying and empowering force,” he said. “Rangers symbolised Igbo resurgence after the Civil War, capturing national and international glory and reflecting the indomitable Igbo spirit.” Beyond sports recognition, Azuta-Mbata announced a major cultural and academic initiative: the establishment of professorial chairs in Igbo language, history, and culture. Seven chairs—one in each Ohanaeze state—have been endowed with a ₦35 million take-off grant, with applications from qualified professors currently under review. “This is a strategic investment in cultural preservation and intellectual renaissance,” he said. “We are ensuring that the Igbo narrative is documented, defended, and dignified.” He also revealed that construction of the new Ohanaeze headquarters in Enugu is nearing completion. The complex will serve as the organisation’s administrative nerve centre and will include a museum dedicated to Igbo music, art, and cultural heritage. Additionally, Azuta-Mbata disclosed that the Alaigbo Investment Company and the Ndigbo Development Foundation will each receive ₦50 million in take-off grants before the end of 2025. Speaking at the meeting, Pat Utomi urged Igbos to clearly define their place in Nigeria and advocate for rule of law and property rights. Former Minister of Power, Chinedu Nebo, emphasised the need for unity and coordinated advocacy among Igbos. The gathering attracted prominent dignitaries, including Peter Obi, Anyim Pius Anyim, and the Obi of Onitsha, Alfred Achebe. The meeting was described as a moment of renewal, continuity, and collective resolve to secure lasting relevance and generational impact for the Igbo people.