The Indigenous Nigerian Ethnic Tribes Elders Forum has officially unveiled its vision to unite more than 400 indigenous ethnic tribes, languages, cultures and communities across Nigeria under one inclusive platform dedicated to promoting peace, unity, security and national development.
According to information published on the Forum’s official website, the organization is a non-political, non-partisan, non-governmental and non-profit platform established to foster stronger collaboration between indigenous communities, government institutions, the military and security agencies in addressing Nigeria’s security, development and social challenges.
The Forum said its primary objective is to create a trusted national voice capable of representing the collective interests of indigenous Nigerian communities while encouraging cooperation in the fight against insecurity, terrorism, kidnapping, corruption and other threats to national peace.
Beyond security, the organization is committed to preserving Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage by promoting indigenous languages, traditions and cultural diversity through programmes such as cultural carnivals, exhibitions and inter-tribal exchanges.
The Forum also places significant emphasis on humanitarian services, including welfare, rehabilitation, restoration, reintegration and empowerment programmes for internally displaced persons (IDPs), victims of terrorism and vulnerable communities across the country.
As part of its youth-focused initiatives, the organization plans to implement leadership development programmes, civic education, anti-radicalization campaigns and skills acquisition projects aimed at empowering young Nigerians and strengthening grassroots participation in nation-building.
The Forum’s advocacy agenda further includes the protection of indigenous rights, collaboration with Nigerians in the diaspora, campaigns for diaspora voting rights and initiatives designed to safeguard the lives, businesses, investments and interests of Nigerians both at home and abroad.
Its community development programmes are expected to focus on grassroots engagement, dialogue, reconciliation, leadership forums and strategic partnerships with national and international organizations working toward sustainable peace and development.
Among its stated core values are unity, peace, integrity, patriotism, inclusiveness, collaboration, respect for culture, compassion, justice, human rights and selfless service to humanity.
The Indigenous Nigerian Ethnic Tribes Elders Forum described itself as “The Authentic Voice of the Indigenous Nigerians,” emphasizing that lasting national peace and development require active collaboration between citizens, traditional institutions and government agencies.
The organization has invited indigenous communities, cultural associations, traditional institutions, youth groups, professionals and Nigerians in the diaspora to join its growing national movement as it seeks to strengthen unity, restore brotherhood and contribute meaningfully to the country’s peace, security and development.
The Forum noted that it remains committed to building a stronger, safer and more united Nigeria through dialogue, partnership and collective responsibility.