posted 31st May 2025
World Igbo Congress Honours Biafra Heroes at Memorial Day Event
Houston, 30 May 2025 – The World Igbo Congress (WIC), the leading organisation representing Ndi Igbo in the diaspora, held its annual Heroes and Heroines Memorial Day on Friday, 30th May, to commemorate the fallen of the Biafra-Nigeria War (1967–1970). The solemn event, marked as Biafra Memorial Day, brought together Igbo communities, Biafrans, allies, and dignitaries from across the globe, including Nigeria, to honour those who sacrificed their lives for freedom, justice, and survival.
In his remembrance address, WIC Chairperson Sir Dr. Festus Okere underscored the importance of preserving the memory of the war’s heroes and heroines. “We, as a people, are duty bound to assemble every 30th of May to remember and honour our heroes and heroines who paid the ultimate price,” Okere stated, emphasising that any deviation from this tradition would be a “dereliction of responsibility.” He praised the courage of those who fought against oppression and tyranny, defending the Igbo homeland and values during the genocidal conflict.
Okere extended gratitude to the WIC Mobilization Committee, led by Dr. Cyril Osuoha, for their steadfast commitment to organising the event. He also acknowledged the contributions of special speakers and dignitaries, many of whom have been longstanding participants in the memorial.
The WIC reiterated its call for Biafra Memorial Day to be recognised as a national holiday, a practice common in nations honouring their fallen citizens. “Their memories must forever etch in the hearts of all living Biafrans and be remembered by generations, ad-infinitum,” Okere declared. He highlighted ongoing efforts to establish a Memorial Park, Cenotaph, and Biafra Memorial Wall of Fame and Honour, with a progress report expected from the dedicated committee.
Addressing broader issues, Okere condemned the suppression of history education in Nigeria, urging Ndi Igbo to tell their own stories and protect their liberty and homeland. He defined individual liberty as encompassing fundamental rights—freedom of expression, assembly, and association; protection of life and property; and access to justice without delay or favouritism. “The vivid traumatic experiences and the causes of the genocidal war should be avoided,” he added, calling for a commitment to justice and fairness to prevent such atrocities in the future.
The event concluded with a unified declaration of “never again,” as attendees paid tribute to the spirits of their ancestors and fallen heroes. Okere reaffirmed the WIC’s mission to unite Ndi Igbo, mobilise resources, coordinate projects, and advocate for the community’s rights and interests.
The World Igbo Congress remains resolute in its pledge to honour the sacrifices of the past while building a future rooted in justice and resilience for Ndi Igbo worldwide.
