In a bid to ensure accurate representation and better regional development, the South East Governors’ Forum (SEGOF) has unveiled plans to launch an electronic registration platform aimed at registering Nigerians of Igbo descent both within Nigeria and across the globe. This initiative, which is part of preparations for the upcoming national census, is set to gather critical demographic data that will support economic planning, governance, and the advancement of the Igbo people.
The announcement was made by the Director-General of SEGOF, Senator Uche Ekwunife, during a press briefing on April 9, 2025. Ekwunife revealed that the platform, which will be accessible worldwide, is designed to gather accurate data on the population of the Igbo people, both in Nigeria and in the diaspora. The goal is to ensure that the Igbo are properly represented in national statistics, addressing the historical underreporting that has hindered the region’s growth and development.
“The platform will provide the necessary data to advocate for increased resource allocation and improved representation for the Igbo people,” Ekwunife said. She emphasized that the initiative would help gather accurate population figures that would guide policy-making and foster the development of Igboland.
One of the key motivations behind the e-registration platform is to address the longstanding issue of underreporting of the Igbo population in previous national census exercises. Despite being one of Nigeria’s largest ethnic groups, the Igbo have often been inaccurately represented due to low participation in past censuses. Ekwunife acknowledged that this gap has impacted the ability of the Igbo to secure their rightful share of resources and political representation at the national level.
“We have often been considered one of the largest ethnic groups in the country, but our true population has never been accurately captured in past censuses,” Ekwunife noted. “This project aims to correct that and provide reliable data that will support the development and political advocacy of the Igbo people.”
The e-registration platform is designed to be accessible to all Igbo individuals, regardless of where they live. Ekwunife pointed out that the platform would be user-friendly, with a simple registration process that allows people of Igbo heritage to register online, complete forms, and answer questionnaires designed to collect comprehensive demographic data.
“We want all individuals of Igbo heritage to participate in this process, whether they live in the South East, other parts of Nigeria, or anywhere in the world,” Ekwunife explained. “This initiative is open to all, ensuring an inclusive and seamless registration process for every Igbo person.”
The platform will not only collect personal details but will also ask for information related to education, employment, and socioeconomic status, giving a more complete picture of the Igbo population both locally and globally. By creating an accurate database, SEGOF aims to ensure that the Igbo voice is heard clearly in national policy and decision-making processes.
The data gathered through this e-registration will have a direct impact on the Igbo nation’s ability to negotiate for better political representation, resource distribution, and economic opportunities**. Ekwunife explained that accurate demographic data would empower the Igbo to advocate for equitable resource allocation and ensure they are adequately represented in political and developmental plans.
“The demographic insights from this platform will help shape political and economic strategies, improving our people’s standing at both the local and national levels,” she said. “Accurate data will enhance the Igbo’s ability to negotiate in political forums and secure economic investments that will foster the growth and development of our communities.”
In addition to improving political representation, the data will also play a significant role in security coordination. With more accurate data, authorities will be better equipped to gather intelligence and ensure the safety of the Igbo people both within Nigeria and in the diaspora.
Ekwunife underscored the importance of the initiative as a critical step in preparing for Nigeria’s national population census. She urged all individuals of Igbo descent to actively participate in the process, stressing that the information collected would be used for regional development and advocacy for improved governance.
“This registration is a critical step in our people’s preparation for the national population census,” Ekwunife said. “By coming together, we will be able to advocate for better infrastructure, better health care, better education, and better representation for our people.”
The SEGOF initiative will also strengthen the Igbo nation’s ability to negotiate for fairer treatment in the distribution of national resources, which has often been skewed against certain regions. By ensuring that accurate data is available, the platform will provide a stronger foundation for policy advocacy on behalf of the Igbo.
One of the most significant aspects of the e-registration platform is its inclusivity for Igbo people living outside Nigeria. The global Igbo community has long been a driving force in the diaspora, contributing to Nigeria’s economy and global influence. The ability for the diaspora to register and be counted will bring the Igbo global population into the national conversation, further solidifying their place in Nigeria’s growth and political development.
The platform is also expected to give rise to more engagement and collaboration between the South East governors and Igbo leaders in the diaspora, fostering a stronger sense of unity and support across borders.
Once the e-registration platform is officially launched, SEGOF plans to engage in awareness campaigns to encourage participation from all Igbo individuals. These campaigns will target key Igbo communities in Nigeria and across the globe, informing them of the importance of registering and the benefits it will bring to the region.
Ekwunife expressed confidence that the initiative would be a major success, paving the way for future regional development and political empowerment for the Igbo people.
“We believe that this initiative will be a turning point for the Igbo people,” she said. “It’s a step toward greater unity, better representation, and a brighter future for our communities.”
