It was a moment of cultural pride, unity, and visionary leadership as Abians in the United States and Canada under the umbrella of the Abia State National Association of North America (ASNA), USA Inc. held their annual Abia Cultural Day, Leadership Conference, and National Election 2025 in Middle Tennessee, USA.
The event, themed “Promoting Our Cultural Heritage, Empowering Widows and Youths,” drew Abians from all 50 states in the U.S. and provinces across Canada, reflecting the global strength and network of the Abia diaspora community.
Speaking at the event, the re-elected President of ASNA, High Chief Enyinnaya I. Alamba, described the gathering as a celebration of unity and an opportunity to renew commitment to Abia’s growth both at home and abroad.
In his emotional address, High Chief Alamba expressed gratitude for the collective achievements recorded during his first tenure and commended members of ASNA for transforming the association into an active force for progress and advocacy.
“We have changed the narrative. Our association is no longer a mere watch group — we are now active stakeholders contributing to the development of Abia State and giving our people a voice on the global stage,” he said.
He highlighted several milestones achieved under his leadership, including:
A major medical mission to Abia State organized in partnership with the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA).
The digital transformation of ASNA’s website and financial systems, improving transparency and member engagement.
The creation of a Bereavement Support Package, which has already supported families of deceased members.
The president also proposed the establishment of a Global Diaspora Homecoming scheduled for December 2026, which will be hosted by Abians in the United States and Canada to further strengthen ties with their homeland.
The conference also featured the 2025 ASNA National Elections, conducted under the supervision of a five-member electoral committee led by High Chief Dr. Kachi Nwoke. The election was described as transparent, credible, and peaceful.
The newly elected national officers who will serve for the next three years include:
High Chief Enyinnaya I. Alamba — President
Prince Emeka Ifenwanta — Vice President
Mazi Smart Nzenwa — Secretary General
Dr. Mrs. Celine Orji — Assistant Secretary General
Mazi Nnadozie Nwagwu — Financial Secretary
Chief Samson Ezeoma — Treasurer
Chief Dr. Jones Nwagbara — Publicity & Media Officer
Mazi Chris Okey Umesiri — Provost
Attorney Solomon O. Kanu — Legal Adviser
In his post-election appreciation letter, President Alamba commended the Electoral Committee for ensuring integrity and fairness throughout the process, noting that their professionalism preserved the association’s unity and credibility.
In a visionary keynote address, Attorney Solomon O. Kanu proposed the establishment of Remote Working Centers (Virtual Assistant Zones) in Umuahia and Aba, which could employ up to 1,000 Abia youths per center.
He explained that the centers would enable young people to work remotely for companies in the U.S. while living in Abia, earning sustainable income in dollars.
“If implemented, this initiative could inject over $500,000 monthly into Abia’s economy, create jobs, and curb youth restiveness,” he noted.
Attorney Kanu urged the Abia State Government to provide infrastructure such as internet access, stable electricity, and security to enable the success of the project.
Professor Landon Onyebueke, one of the keynote speakers, also spoke extensively about the role of technology in sustainable development. Presenting his paper titled “Converting Waste to Energy and Wealth,” he advocated for the creation of community hubs where engineers, innovators, and professionals from various fields could collaborate to turn waste into usable energy and economic value. His presentation inspired participants to rethink environmental management through science, innovation, and local partnerships.
The 2025 Abia Cultural Day showcased traditional dances, colorful attires, and displays of Abia’s rich heritage. The event’s central message was empowerment — giving widows and youths the tools and opportunities to thrive, both in the diaspora and back home.
ASNA reaffirmed its mission to preserve Abia’s cultural values, promote unity, and support development initiatives that improve the welfare of Abians globally.
While addressing the gathering, the Guest of Honour and Executive Secretary of the Abia State Diaspora Commission, Rev. Amb. Annie Onu, conveyed warm greetings from Governor Alex C. Otti, OFR, to Abians in America. She took time to highlight the remarkable transformation currently taking place across Abia State — from infrastructure to education, healthcare, power, and other key sectors — noting that Governor Otti is steadily restoring the dignity and pride of Abians both at home and abroad.
Rev. Onu called on all Abians in the diaspora to rally massive support for the governor’s administration and to identify with the “New Abia” movement, which represents transparency, progress, and good governance. She assured them of her commitment to fostering unity among Abians in the United States, promising to work towards bringing everyone under one strong and united umbrella.
The event ended with renewed optimism and commitment toward strengthening the bond between Abia State and its diaspora community in North America.
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