The Executive Chairman of Ado Local Government Council, Engr. Sunny Oche, joined distinguished sons and daughters of the Idoma Nation from across the world at the Annual Idoma Nation Convention held in London, United Kingdom, on August 9, 2026. Engr. Oche represented the people of Ado Local Government at the prestigious gathering, which brought together Idoma people from the diaspora and the homeland in a celebration of unity, culture, and shared aspirations.
The convention attracted prominent personalities, political leaders, traditional rulers, professionals, business leaders, and other stakeholders who assembled to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Idoma Nation and deliberate on pathways toward a more prosperous future. Engr. Oche described the gathering as an important platform for strengthening unity, preserving cultural identity, and advancing the collective aspirations of the Idoma people worldwide.
A major highlight of the event was the presence of the revered traditional institution of the Idoma Kingdom, led by His Royal Majesty, Och’Idoma Agaba-Idu Dr. Eliasigwu John Odogbo, the paramount ruler and custodian of the cultural heritage and traditions of the Idoma people. His attendance further underscored the cultural and historical significance of the convention and reinforced the importance of preserving Idoma values and traditions.
Speaking during the convention, Engr. Oche made a passionate appeal to Idoma sons and daughters across the globe to invest in the Igumale Star Cement Factory. He noted that the abundant limestone deposits in Igumale, Ado Local Government Area, possess the potential to transform the economic fortunes of the Idoma Nation.
According to him, “Igumale is blessed with vast limestone deposits capable of sustaining a viable cement industry. This presents a strategic opportunity for the economic transformation of the Idoma Nation. We must collectively work towards the revival and full operationalisation of the Igumale Star Cement Factory, especially at a time when we have a Governor who is committed to supporting its return to full production.”
Engr. Oche further highlighted the developmental strides of the administration of Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia in Ado Local Government and Zone C generally. He specifically commended the Governor for the ongoing reconstruction of the Igumale–Agila Road, the upgrade of Government College Utonkon to Government Technical College Utonkon, and the support for the “Operation Light Up Ado” initiative, which aligns with the Governor’s broader “Operation Light Up Benue” programme. He noted that these interventions have continued to improve infrastructure, education, and access to public services in Ado Local Government.
The Chairman also acknowledged that the Governor has demonstrated a strong commitment to the development of Ado and the wider Zone C through various ongoing projects, adding that more developmental initiatives are being planned for the area. He expressed confidence that the combined impact of these projects would stimulate economic growth, create opportunities for young people, and improve the quality of life of the people.
He further emphasised that the development of the Idoma Nation requires collective responsibility, irrespective of political affiliations, local government boundaries, or geographical locations. He stressed the need for sustained collaboration among leaders and stakeholders in the interest of the people and future generations.
Engr. Oche attended the convention alongside some of his colleagues from Zone C, including the Executive Chairman of Ogbadibo Local Government Council, Hon. Sunday Ajunwa, and the Executive Chairman of Ohimini Local Government Council, Hon. Adole, among other dignitaries. He observed that their collective presence reflected the growing spirit of unity, cooperation, and mutual respect among leaders from the zone.
Speaking further on the significance of the convention, Engr. Oche described it as more than a cultural celebration, noting that it also provided an opportunity to re-evaluate the future of the Idoma Nation and identify practical solutions to its developmental challenges. He stated, “Culture is a way of life, and we must continue to preserve, strengthen, and showcase our cultural heritage. At the same time, we must create platforms that expose our younger generation to opportunities in education, entrepreneurship, technology, investment, and leadership.”
He therefore called for stronger collaboration between Idoma people at home and those in the diaspora, noting that the skills, resources, networks, and experiences of Idoma professionals abroad could significantly contribute to the development of the homeland.
During the convention, Engr. Oche also interacted with several dignitaries, including Hon. William Obande, an aspirant in the recently concluded APC primary election; Ambassador Mrs. Comfort Briggs Lokpobiri, Coordinator of the City Boys Movement Women’s Wing, Benue State; Hon. Sunday Ajunwa, Executive Chairman of Ogbadibo Local Government Council; Hon. Adole, Executive Chairman of Ohimini Local Government Council; and Hon. Akpakwu Emmanuel.
Engr. Oche commended the Idoma community in the United Kingdom and other parts of the diaspora for their unwavering commitment to preserving their cultural identity despite living far from their ancestral homeland. He also praised the organisers for delivering what he described as a well-coordinated and impactful gathering that strengthened bonds among Idoma people across continents.
Expressing satisfaction with the high level of participation and the unity displayed throughout the convention, Engr. Oche described the event as a clear demonstration that the Idoma spirit remains strong regardless of geographical location. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that promote unity, cultural preservation, youth empowerment, peaceful coexistence, and sustainable development across Ado Local Government, Zone C, and the Idoma Nation at large.
Signed,
Aluma Moses
SA on Media and Strategic Communication to the Chairman
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