World Igbo Congress raises funds to launch a US-based federal credit union, pushing for economic self-reliance and unity among Ndi Igbo diaspora
World Igbo Congress has taken a bold step toward launching a federal credit union in the United States, marking a new phase in the organization’s push for economic empowerment within the global Igbo community.
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The initiative was officially unveiled during the WIC’s recent convention held at the Marriott Hotel in Quincy, Massachusetts.
At the well-attended event, seed capital was successfully raised for the registration of the Igbo-focused financial institution.
Speaking at the event, Chief Gaius Chibueze, CEO of Voice of the East Radio and TV in Enugu, challenged young Igbo people, especially those born abroad, to engage with WIC initiatives.
“We are planting this [credit union] for your own good,” he said. “Don’t just say it’s for old people. Get involved.”
Chibueze, a prominent Bitcoin trader and diaspora influencer, personally donated $10,000 to the cause and pledged to invest more when formal membership opens.
As part of the hosting branch, Mr. Basil Onwukwe, Vice Chairman of the Igbo Organization of New England, hailed the turnout and fundraising success:
“The convention exceeded our expectations both in attendance and in the initial donations for the credit union capitalization.”
In a communiqué issued at the end of the convention, World Igbo Congress reaffirmed the credit union project as central to its long-term vision of economic self-determination, collective wealth building, and community empowerment.
Beyond the credit union, the Congress used the convention to issue strong positions on political and social justice issues.
The body called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and urged the Federal Government to declare May 30th a national holiday in memory of victims of the Nigeria–Biafra War.
WIC also raised concerns about growing Igbophobia, both within Nigeria and internationally.
In their communiqué signed by Chairman Dr. Festus Okere and Secretary-General Sir Chris Ogara, the group condemned:
“The rising tide of Igbophobia, manifesting in hate speech, destruction of properties, targeted violence, and marginalization.”
The Congress appealed to governments, civil society, and global partners to actively combat the discrimination facing Ndi Igbo and uphold constitutional rights and equal protections for all Nigerians.
Another major resolution was the plan to build a Cenotaph and Monumental Park in Alaigbo, dedicated to the fallen heroes of the Biafra War. WIC describes the project as:
“A lasting symbol of resilience, a reminder of the sacrifices made, and an educational marker for future generations.”
In a more controversial moment, WIC issued a warning against what it termed as “Igbo Uncle Toms and Political Judases”—a reference to politicians and elites who allegedly trade collective interests for personal gain.
“They are cancers to Igbo survival,” the communiqué stated, urging the wider Igbo public to reject such individuals.
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With the successful fundraising for the credit union and renewed momentum around its advocacy, World Igbo Congress is positioning itself as a powerful force for unity, economic upliftment, and political voice for the Igbo diaspora and homeland alike.
