By : Ike Philip Abiagom
Igbuzo, one of the prominent towns in Delta State, is set to host a major gathering of its sons and daughters from across the globe as the Ibusa Community Development Union (ICDU) holds its 2026 Easter Annual Conference on April 4, 2026. The event, scheduled to take place at the Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Event Centre, is expected to attract delegates from all 22 ICDU branches worldwide.
ICDU, a global organization committed to the progress and development of Ibusa, limits its membership to indigenes by birth or marriage. The town, located on the eastern flank of the lower River Niger, is widely known for its rich cultural heritage, strong academic tradition, and deep religious values.
Speaking ahead of the conference, the President-General of ICDU Worldwide, Onowu Victor Uchuno, highlighted key achievements as well as pressing challenges facing the community.
A major milestone, he noted, was the success of the 2024 fundraising event held in Lagos, which generated about ₦48 million. The exercise witnessed strong support from Ibusa indigenes, both in cash and in-kind contributions. Among the standout contributions was the donation and installation of 1,000 solar street lights by a prominent son of the community, a project that has significantly enhanced public lighting and improved security.
In the area of education and infrastructure, ICDU undertook the rehabilitation of a previously unusable school football field, restoring it for community use. The union also constructed an ICT and Science block at Ibusa Girls Secondary School. Although the building was later converted into a hostel following a separate government intervention, it remains a clear demonstration of ICDU’s commitment to educational advancement.
Efforts to improve sanitation, including the proposed construction of public toilet facilities at Ashi-Eke Market, borehole installation, and the evacuation of the Igbuzo dump site, were however stalled. According to the President-General, the local government council maintained that such projects fall within its statutory responsibilities, requiring official approval before execution.
On power supply, ICDU has recorded notable progress through the acquisition and energizing of substations, including a 15 MVA transformer. These interventions have supported the connection of about 34 transformers across Ibusa, contributing to improved electricity distribution despite persistent national grid challenges.
Financial transparency, Uchuno emphasized, remains a core principle of the union. After repaying a ₦2 million loan used to facilitate the Lagos fundraising event, the remaining funds were invested in a fixed deposit account with Providence Bank. The investment has grown to approximately ₦55 million, with additional interest expected upon maturity in May 2026. Members have been encouraged to verify the accounts as part of ICDU’s commitment to accountability.
Looking ahead, ICDU has mapped out several development initiatives, including ICT and laptop programs, a proposed redesign of the ICDU Mall into a modern recreational hub, and the development of a newly acquired 10-plot “Symmetry” estate. These projects reflect the town’s gradual transformation into a mini metropolitan centre.
The forthcoming Easter conference will also focus on key social issues such as cultism, drug abuse, youth organization, and community security. Experts, including a retired police commissioner and professionals from the power sector, have been invited to provide guidance and insights.
To deepen participation, ICDU has expanded its conference representation beyond the traditional two delegates per branch. The union is also intensifying efforts to boost membership registration, strengthen branch engagement, and ensure compliance with dues and contributions.
Addressing the youth, the President-General called for greater involvement of young people in the affairs of the union. He stressed that ICDU is not an organization reserved for the elderly, but one that requires the energy, ideas, and leadership of the younger generation.
He urged Ibusa youths to rise to the challenges facing the community, take ownership of their future, and actively participate in decision-making processes. According to him, the union is ready and willing to provide opportunities for youths to become the driving force and future leaders of the organization.
Uchuno also expressed concern over divisions within the Ibusa youth body, describing it as unfortunate at a time when unity is most needed. He appealed to all factions to embrace peace and work together in the collective interest of the community.
He concluded by expressing deep appreciation to all sons and daughters of Ibusa for their continued support and contributions to the town’s development. He urged them not to relent, emphasizing that Ibusa remains their shared heritage and collective responsibility.
“We do not have another town to call our own apart from Ibusa,” he said, calling for sustained commitment toward building a stronger and more prosperous community.