All over Africa, counting the 54 nations, is counting the number of Igbos-from Dakar to the malls in Johannesburg, one tribe continues to shape the continents economic and social progress: the Igbo people. But many Africans in Diaspora, do not know the story of the Igbos, Africa’s most migrant traders - their roots, resilience and remarkable impact, such remains largely untold.
The Igbo people or Ndi Igbo originate from the southeastern Nigeria, the region bounded by the Niger River and the Atlantic coast. The Igbos with a population of over 35 million, with over 1 to 2 million Igbos spreads across every country in Africa, the Igbos are more than just a tribe, they a powerful African force wherever they are, quietly shaping and contributing to the continents development and growth with their capability and energy in trade, commerce and industry engagements. What makes the Igbo people unique is their deep cultural instinct for mobility, resilience, seeking new opportunities where it never existed, unlike many migrant groups who keep to themselves, the Igbo have a long tradition of integrating into new environments. They do not just live in the other African countries; they build them and make a difference. From running thriving businesses in Lusaka to managing tech hubs in Nairobi and trading goods in Bangui, the Igbos have become the unicorn of Africa and its unofficial Ambassador. But beyond commerce, Igbo culture travels beyond. Their traditional values, community service, self -reliance, democracy and respect for elders and seniors blend well into diverse societies. In fact, the Igbo village system, built on age-grade structure, community councils and participatory decision-making, is one of the oldest models of grassroots democracy in Africa. This is why colonial powers did dominate Igbo land, as it was too organized.
Diasporans may also be surprised to learn how much African unity lives in the Igbo spirit. Igbo people are known to marry into other ethnic groups with ease and commitment. Across Africa, many women say they prefer Igbo men for their hard work, strong family values and ability to provide.
From Ngozi Okonjo- Iweala to the Nobel- nominated author like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, to doctors building local hospitals in remote towns, to traders empowering local economies, the Igbos have left great legacies of progress all over Africa.
To know the Igbos is to understand that Africa’s greatness lies not only in its nations, but in the people who cross borders with ideas, values and determination to build. If you are part of African diaspora, next time you see fellow Africans, take a look closer for an Igbo man- for their blueprint for united, prosperous and people-oriented Africa.