Enugu Gears Up for Grand Agbaja Summit 2025 as Leaders Unveil Ambitious Plans

Plans are in full swing for the much-anticipated second edition of the Agbaja Summit 2025, with the organisers promising a grander, more impactful event that blends tradition, innovation, and development.

Following the widely acclaimed maiden edition held in 2022 at Okpara Square, Enugu, the upcoming summit—scheduled for November 26–27, 2025—was formally announced at a press conference earlier this week in Enugu.

The event, which will be hosted by Agbaja Leaders of Thought (ALT), a distinguished coalition of intellectuals, professionals, and cultural custodians from the Agbaja region, is set to attract notable Nigerians and international participants.

Who Are the Agbaja People?

The Agbaja people, indigenous to the Udi hills region of Enugu State, span five key Local Government Areas: Udi, Ezeagu, Enugu North, parts of Enugu South, and parts of Uzo-Uwani. Cultural scholars also trace Agbaja heritage into parts of Anambra and Ebonyi states.

Over the years, Agbaja land has produced influential figures in politics, culture, and public service—including former governors Christian Onoh and Sullivan Chime, and entertainment icons such as Celestine Ukwu, Mike Ejeagha, Nkem Owoh (Osuofia), Patience Ozokwor, and Chiwetalu Agu.

Summit Theme: Education, Skills, and Cultural Revival

Chairman of the Summit Planning Committee and Professor of Anatomy at ESUT College of Medicine, Prof. Chike Anibeze, said the 2025 edition will go beyond a conference.

“Agbaja Summit 2025 will be more than a conference. Rooted in heritage, it will reimagine leadership, inspire innovation, and chart a dignified future for our people. It will be a forum to challenge ourselves to accomplish more,” Anibeze stated.

Themed around Education and Skills Development, the summit will begin with a hybrid colloquium featuring expert-led workshops and discussions. Highlights of Day One include an aspiring entrepreneurs’ workshop and exhibition designed to boost capacity and foster self-reliance.

Day Two will climax with a grand cultural fiesta at the Enugu International Conference Centre, featuring Agbaja masquerades, music, dance, food, and fashion in what organisers describe as “a cultural carnival never before seen in Eastern Nigeria.”

There will also be a ceremony to honour notable Agbaja achievers for their contributions to community development.

Prof. Anibeze called on media partners to join the historic journey where “tradition meets transformation, and heritage inspires progress.”

“Senator Is Talk and Do” – Strong Political Support

Senator Engr. Osita Ngwu, representing Enugu West, was among the dignitaries at the press conference. He received widespread praise for his grassroots-focused leadership and infrastructural interventions across Agbaja land.

“I shelved my trip back to Abuja to be here—this is where I belong,” he said, pledging strong support for the summit.

International business consultant, Chief Dr. Obiora Ilo, echoed public sentiment, describing the senator as “Talk and Do,” citing his ongoing water projects across the zone.

Reflections and Endorsements from Summit Veterans

Dr. Ugo Chime, who chaired the 2022 planning committee, reflected on the challenges of the maiden edition and praised the current team’s readiness, particularly Prof. Anibeze who served as secretary in the 2022 summit.

“With the wealth of experience already on the table, this 2025 edition will exceed expectations,” Chime said.

He also commended entertainment magnate Prince Victor Ogakwu, who pledged unwavering support for the event, especially in fundraising efforts.

Powerhouse of Leadership Behind the Summit

The roll call of supporters underscores the high expectations for Agbaja Summit 2025. Present at the press conference or working behind the scenes were:

• Senator Osita Ngwu
• Chief Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, former Deputy Governor of Enugu State
• Dame Oyibo Agu, former CBN Director
• Prof. Agu Gab Agu, law professor and ALT BoT Secretary
• Chief Emeka Odenigwe, Secretary of the Planning Committee
• Chief Sheddy Ozoene, journalist and moderator of the press parley
• Luke Mgbo, broadcaster
• Barr. Chukwudi Achife, political aide and strategist
• Prof. Ike Oluka
• Ozo Dr. Ferdinand Anikwe, culture scholar and former DG of CBAAC
• Chief Loretta Aniagolu, MD/CEO of FIT Group

Although absent due to academic duties, Rev. Prof. Chinedu Nebo, former Minister of Power and Chairman of ALT’s Board of Trustees, sent his full endorsement.

What to Expect

With this calibre of leadership, extensive planning, and clear community backing, Agbaja Summit 2025 promises to be a landmark cultural and developmental gathering.

It will not only celebrate the rich heritage of the Agbaja people but also serve as a springboard for skills development, economic empowerment, and intergenerational dialogue.

As preparations gain momentum, all eyes now turn to November 26–27, when Enugu will once again host the pride of Udi Hills and showcase a vision of progress anchored in culture, unity, and innovation.