HISTORY OF OHA-NGWA MANCHESTER
About ONM
History continued
Oha Ngwa Manchester is a vibrant and family-centered cultural organisation dedicated to preserving the rich traditions.The idea to establish Oha Ngwa Manchester was first conceived by two individuals Mazi Ikenna James and Mrs. Vine Chizoba Munonye, following a heartfelt and passionate conversation about the well-being of Ngwa sons and daughters and the future of Ngwa land. On the 26th of June 2022, Mazi Ikenna James took the first bold step by creating a WhatsApp group to bring this vision to life.
They invited dedicated and like-minded individuals, including Mr Chima Nwankpa, Mrs. Ngozi Amankulor, Sister Odilanma, and Mrs. Onyiyechi Ohajuru, a former active member of Oha Ngwa London whose experience and commitment made her a perfect fit for the initiative. Together with Mrs. Vine Chizoba Munonye, this core team, comprising Mazi Ikenna, Mrs. Onyiyechi, and Mrs. Vine became the first admins of Oha Ngwa Manchester. United, by their shared passion, they tirelessly reached out to other Ngwa sons and daughters across the North West of England, determined to build a strong and inclusive community.
Their efforts brought in dedicated pioneers such as sister Odilanma and Mrs. Phoebe Augustine, whose early involvement helped lay the foundation for the group. Through persistence, unity, and an unyielding drive to connect and uplift the Ngwa people, Oha Ngwa Manchester achieved a major milestone. On the 22nd of July 2023, the group proudly held its first inauguration, a historic moment during which the first executive members were appointed, individuals committed to move the community forward, setting the stage for a vibrant and thriving community.
* Mazi Ikenna James – Chairman
* Mazi Chris Chinyere – General Secretary
* Mazi Celestine Ebere Ezenwoko – Financial Secretary
* Mazi Chima Nwankpa – Assistant Financial Secretary
* Mrs. Onyinyechi Nwaogwugwu – Public Relations Officer (PRO)
These forward-thinking leaders have been instrumental in achieving remarkable milestones within the first year of their tenure. Among the most notable was the crowning of Oha Ngwa Manchester’s first Opara Ukwu Ngwa and Ada Ukwu Ngwa. These honorary titles, conferred on their industrious son Mazi Ikenna James and their esteemed daughter Lolo Roseline Kalu, marked a historic moment. This crowning established ONM as the first Igbo community in the North West of England to celebrate such an achievement, further solidifying its place in history.
Oha Ngwa Manchester has grown exponentially from its humble beginnings with just six members to a thriving community of over 70 active members within two years. This growth necessitated the creation of additional leadership roles to support the executive team:
* Mazi David Ugorji – Vice Chairman
* Mazi Nwokoma Ndubuisi – Assistant Secretary
* Mrs. Ego Ogbonna – Provost
* Mrs. Florence Chioma Nwagwu – Assistant Provost
* Mrs. Vine Chizoba Nwosu Munonye – Welfare Officer
* Mazi James Achilihu – Assistant Welfare Officer
As a family-centered organisation, ONM’s impact is felt deeply within its community. The group proudly celebrated its first Oha Ngwa marriage, the arrival of two newborns, and the unwavering support extended to members during significant life events. These milestones underscore the organisation's commitment to fostering unity and celebrating individual and collective achievements.
To expand its reach and accessibility, ONM recently launched its official website, www.ohangwamanchester.uk, and established a strong presence on social media platforms. These efforts have not only amplified ONM’s voice but also attracted a growing number of inquiries and new members. This growth was evident during ONM’s first ever end-of-year celebration, which brought together members and well wishers to share in the joy and unity of the community.
Looking ahead, ONM is actively pursuing official charity status in the United Kingdom. This milestone will enable the organisation to deepen its impact, extend its support to more members, and solidify its legacy as a beacon of cultural preservation and community empowerment.
Oha Ngwa Manchester stands as a testament to the power of vision, unity, and unwavering dedication. Together, we continue to honour our heritage, celebrate our achievements, and build a stronger community for generations to come. Long live Oha Ngwa Manchester!