Kanayo O. Kanayo: “Nigeria Will Progress When an Igbo Becomes President”

Nollywood veteran Kanayo O. Kanayo has asserted that Nigeria will begin to progress the day an Igbo individual becomes president. He dismissed the “Igbophobia” that has led some to exclude Igbos from the presidency as a mere figment of imagination.

Speaking on the latest episode of ‘The Honest Bunch’ podcast, Kanayo explained what being Igbo and Nigerian means to him. He stated, “Being an Igbo means that I come from a part of the country that speaks a dialect just like the Hausas, Fulani, and others. It also means I’m a special person whose endeavors prosper. When we Igbos are called the Jews of this part of the world, it signifies a lot. And to whom much is given, much is expected.”

He elaborated on the entrepreneurial spirit of the Igbos, highlighting their ability to grow businesses from humble beginnings to thriving enterprises. He mentioned that this success often makes Igbos the envy of others.

Kanayo also touched on the misconception that Igbos want to take over Lagos, stating that Igbos have no desire to take over Lagos as they have their ancestral homes. He argued that abolishing the state of origin concept in Nigeria would benefit the country, as job candidates should be assessed based on their qualifications, not their origins.

He lamented that being Igbo has become an endangered identity, with people being judged based on where they come from rather than their contributions. He pointed out the persistent division and nepotism in Nigeria, which he believes is driven by political, economic, and religious motives.

Kanayo recalled a statement made by Prof Yusuf, questioning why Igbos were not participating in protests. He responded by highlighting the hypocrisy of expecting Igbos to protest when they are often deemed unfit for leadership roles.

He emphasized that Igbos are unique in their ability to integrate and build homes in every community across Nigeria. He concluded by saying that granting the presidency to an Igbo person would reveal Nigeria’s true potential and spark significant economic progress.