Cultural Roots and Purpose in the Diaspora

The Igbo people, one of Africa’s largest ethnolinguistic groups, trace their cultural heritage to centuries-old traditions of self-governance, communal solidarity, and respect for titled men and women. In precolonial Igbo society, titleholders such as Nze, Ozo, and Ichie were custodians of justice, morality, and ritual order—serving not as monarchs, but as respected community elders whose influence stemmed from wisdom, integrity, and service.

These titles were not merely ceremonial; they symbolized personal achievement, moral standing, and a deep commitment to the wellbeing of one’s community. The regalia, rites, and insignia associated with these titles remain powerful markers of Igbo identity and continuity.

In the diaspora, the Igbo Council of Chiefs/Traditional Rulers (Austin,Texas) carries forward this legacy, adapting it to a multicultural environment while preserving its core values. Our purpose is to:

• Preserve Cultural Identity – Maintain Igbo traditions, language, and ceremonial practices for future generations.

• Promote Unity – Serve as a unifying body for Igbo titleholders and the wider community in Austin.

• Act as Cultural Ambassadors – Represent Igbo heritage with dignity in intercultural engagements and partnerships.

• Mentor and Educate – Guide younger generations in understanding the responsibilities, values, and discipline that underpin traditional titles.

• Support Community Development – Mediate disputes, organize cultural events, and contribute to charitable and educational initiatives.
  
  

By connecting the wisdom of our ancestors to the realities of diaspora life, we ensure that the honor, heritage, and harmony of Ndi Nze n’Ozo remain vibrant—whether in our ancestral villages or far beyond Nigeria’s shores.

Charter and Constitution

The Charter and Constitution of the Igbo Council of Chiefs/Traditional Rulers (Austin, Texas) serve as the guiding framework for our identity, responsibilities, and operations. They affirm our commitment to uphold the honor, heritage, and ethical standards of Ndi Nze n’Ozo and other esteemed Igbo titleholders in the diaspora.

Purpose of the Charter

The Charter embodies the founding principles of the Council, ensuring that:

• Membership is based on verified conferment of a recognized traditional title from an Igbo community.

• The dignity of titles is preserved through adherence to cultural norms and personal conduct.

• The Council functions as a non-partisan, non-profit cultural institution dedicated to service and unity.
  
  

Scope of the Constitution

The Constitution details the Council’s structure, powers, and responsibilities, including:

• Membership Criteria – Eligibility, application, verification, and induction processes.

• Leadership Structure – Roles and duties of the Executive Council, Council of Elders, and Committees.

• Code of Conduct – Expected behavior, conflict resolution, and disciplinary measures.

• Meetings and Decision-Making – Frequency, quorum requirements, and voting procedures.

• Cultural Protocols – Guidelines for regalia, ceremonies, and use of traditional insignia in diaspora settings.

• Financial Management – Dues, levies, fundraising, and transparent accounting.
  
  

Binding Authority

All members, upon induction, pledge to abide by the provisions of this Charter and Constitution. These documents remain living instruments—subject to periodic review and amendment to reflect evolving realities while safeguarding our cultural foundations.

Through this governance framework, the Council ensures that our traditions remain respected, our leadership accountable, and our collective purpose steadfast in preserving the dignity of Igbo titles across generations and borders.

Motto

“Honesty, Peace & Unity.”

Rooted in these guiding values, we commit to upholding the dignity of Igbo traditional titles, safeguarding our cultural heritage, and nurturing bonds of harmony and mutual respect among titleholders in our homeland and throughout the diaspora. .

Aims and Objectives

The Igbo Council of Chiefs/Traditional Rulers (Austin, Texas) exists to strengthen, promote, and protect the values, responsibilities, and traditions of Igbo titleholding. Our aims and objectives include:

1. Cultural Preservation

   • Promote the continued observance of Igbo customs, rites, and ceremonies.

   • Encourage the teaching and use of the Igbo language in our community.

2. Unity and Brotherhood

   • Foster solidarity among all titleholders and the wider Igbo community in Austin.

   • Serve as a forum for resolving disputes in accordance with Igbo values of justice and fairness.

3. Protection of Titles

   • Safeguard the dignity, integrity, and prestige of Igbo titles against misuse or misrepresentation.

   • Maintain a verified registry of authentic titleholders within the diaspora.

4. Community Service

   • Engage in charitable, educational, and cultural initiatives that uplift both the Igbo and the wider Austin community.

   • Provide mentorship for youth and emerging leaders.

5. Cultural Diplomacy

   • Represent the Igbo community in intercultural, governmental, and civic engagements.

   • Build partnerships with cultural, academic, and heritage institutions locally and internationally.

6. Institutional Development

   • Strengthen the organizational capacity of the Council through training, strategic planning, and transparent governance.

Executive Council

Profiles and titles of:

• • President General (PG)

  • Vice President / Ichie Nweobi

  • Secretary, Treasurer, Cultural Director, etc.

Council of Elders

• • Senior titleholders who serve as spiritual and cultural guides

Committees and Subcommittees

• Membership & Ethics

• Events Planning

• Welfare & Bereavement

• Cultural Education

• Constitution Review

• Media & Publicity

• etc.