Rev. Dr. Annie Onu’s impactful visit to Abians in Aberdeen left a lasting impression and renewed calls for diaspora engagement. Read full details now.
The Abia State Diaspora Commission (ADCOM) has once again proven its strategic relevance as its Executive Secretary, Rev. Amb. Dr. Annie N. Onu, made a historic and emotionally stirring visit to the Abia community in Aberdeen, Scotland.
The visit, hosted by Nzuko Ndi Abia na Aberdeen in collaboration with the wider Igbo community in Aberdeen, was marked by a powerful spirit of unity, cultural pride, and renewed commitment to the vision of Governor Alex Chioma Otti (OFR) for a “New Abia.”
Speaking on behalf of Governor Otti, Rev. Dr. Onu delivered an inspiring message that left attendees visibly moved. She conveyed the deep appreciation of the Abia State Government for the unwavering support, commitment, and sacrifices of Abians in the diaspora. She acknowledged their critical role in reshaping the global perception of the state, describing them as “indispensable partners in the Abia Renaissance.”
In her address, Dr. Onu praised the resilience and vibrancy of Umu Abia living abroad. She emphasized that the Otti-led administration deeply values the diaspora as collaborators in building a progressive, transparent, and inclusive state. “You are not just observers; you are stakeholders. Your ideas, skills, and investments are key to the future we are building,” she declared.
She encouraged the community to continue investing in their home state, promoting Abia’s name on the global stage, and actively participating in initiatives that promote development, innovation, and social inclusion. Her words were not only a message of hope but also a call to action — a challenge to rise and contribute meaningfully.
In a heartfelt response, Mazi Chinedu Ezek, Secretary of the Igbo Community in Aberdeen, expressed the community’s sincere gratitude to Rev. Dr. Onu for her visit and her commitment to building lasting connections with Abians overseas. He lauded her vision and praised her for bringing the diaspora into the heart of Abia’s transformation agenda.
“Her presence has strengthened our bond with home,” he said, adding that the Aberdeen community remains fully committed to Governor Alex Otti’s New Abia vision and will support the development efforts with renewed zeal.
The event also featured cultural displays, interactions, and pledges of support from the community. Many attendees shared how they were deeply touched by the message and how the visit rekindled a sense of identity and purpose.
Before departing, Rev. Dr. Onu reaffirmed the government’s openness to ideas, collaboration, and innovations from the diaspora, stressing that “the door remains wide open” for all willing to contribute to Abia’s growth.
The visit has since been described as a defining moment in diaspora engagement — one that not only connected hearts but also reignited the collective ambition for a greater homeland.
In the words of Nzuko Ndi Abia na Aberdeen: “We move forward for a Greater Abia, a Better Nigeria, and the glory of our cultural heritage.”