‘Idoma UK Convention is about shaping our future’ – ICUK President, Williams Obande

President of the Idoma Community United Kingdom (ICUK), Chief Williams Obande, has said the maiden Idoma Convention in the United Kingdom is aimed at shaping the future of the Idoma nation through unity, investment, cultural preservation and youth development.

Obande, who spoke ahead of the historic convention, which would hold on August 8 in London, described the event as more than a cultural celebration, saying it represents the beginning of a global movement to unite Idoma people across the world.

According to him, the inspiration behind the convention came from the desire to bring together Idoma sons and daughters in the United Kingdom under one platform that promotes their shared identity and creates opportunities for collective development.

“This convention is not simply about celebrating our past; it is about shaping our future together. We want every participant to return home inspired, connected and committed to advancing the progress of the Idoma nation wherever they may be,” he said.

He explained that the convention seeks to unite Idoma people regardless of political affiliation, religious belief or social status while preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Idoma nation.

The Owujoi K’Idoma said ICUK also hopes to connect professionals, entrepreneurs, students and families, attract investment to Benue South, encourage mentorship for young people and establish a strong global platform for Idoma people living in the UK.

“What unites us is far greater than what divides us. ICUK welcomes every Idoma person regardless of political party, denomination or social status,” he stated.

The ICUK president said the organisation expects the convention to produce tangible outcomes beyond networking and celebration.

According to him, the gathering is expected to stimulate investment partnerships, strengthen collaboration among Idoma professionals, establish structured mentorship programmes for young people, promote education and healthcare initiatives, and produce annual development action plans.

“Our goal is that this convention becomes a platform that delivers results rather than simply hosting an event,” he said.

Obande called on Idoma professionals in the diaspora to contribute their expertise towards the development of Benue South, noting that development goes beyond financial contributions.

“Every professional has something valuable to offer. Doctors can support healthcare initiatives. Engineers can contribute technical expertise. Academics can mentor students, while entrepreneurs can invest in businesses that create employment opportunities,” he said.

He identified agriculture, agro-processing, solid minerals, manufacturing, tourism, education, healthcare, renewable energy and digital technology as major investment opportunities in Idoma land.

The ICUK president said the convention would encourage diaspora investors to move beyond remittances and begin investing in sustainable businesses capable of creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.

He disclosed that discussions during the convention would focus on education, healthcare, technology, youth empowerment, leadership development, entrepreneurship and skills acquisition.

Obande also expressed hope that Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, would use the occasion to present his administration’s vision for Benue South, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, security, education, agriculture, healthcare, industrialisation, youth employment and diaspora engagement. 

One of the key priorities of ICUK, he said, is preserving the Idoma language and culture among younger generations born abroad.

“We want our children not only to know where they come from but to be proud of their identity. Preserving our culture is a responsibility we owe to future generations,” he said. 

Obande said participants should expect traditional music and dance, cultural exhibitions, Idoma cuisine, historical presentations, the Idoma Centenary Lecture, recognition of distinguished Idoma sons and daughters, networking sessions and family-oriented activities.

He noted that although ICUK is still a relatively young organisation, it has succeeded in bringing together Idoma people across the United Kingdom, establishing governance structures and successfully organising the first-ever Idoma Convention in the UK.

He added that the convention is intended to become an annual international event that will attract participants from Nigeria, Europe and other parts of the world while promoting cultural preservation, economic collaboration and community development.

“Our strength lies in our unity. No matter where we live or what profession we pursue, we remain one people with a shared heritage and a shared responsibility to build a better future for the next generation. When we unite, support one another and invest our talents and resources in our homeland, there is no limit to what the Idoma nation can achieve,” Obande said.