Igala Association USA brings together Igala sons and daughters living in the United States. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, founded in 1999, with chapters across the country and one guiding motto: Udama chu kpahiu, unity is power.
Our mission
To foster Igala unity in the United States and to support our people back home.
Our vision
A strong, connected Igala community in the diaspora that keeps its culture alive across generations, speaks with one voice on issues affecting Igala land, and gives back through education, healthcare and community development.
Core values
- Faith and humility as the foundation of our service.
- Unity: one team and one purpose, with differences settled privately and respectfully.
- Heritage: pride in Igala language, culture and traditions.
- Service: giving back to our communities here and at home.
- Integrity and accountability in how we lead and manage the Association’s funds.
- Continuity: each executive builds on the work of those before it.
Our story
Igala Association USA was founded in 1999 to create a structured network serving the cultural, social and professional needs of Igala individuals and families in the diaspora, while providing humanitarian aid to our homeland.
Over more than 25 years the Association has grown into a national body with chapters across the United States, a yearly national convention that draws Igala people from across North America and beyond, and programmes in education, healthcare and mentorship. Some of our founding members still serve today, including the Chairman of our Board of Trustees.
History timeline
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1999 | Igala Association USA founded. |
| 2022–2026 | Executive led by President Teresa Edoja, now Immediate Past President. |
| 2025 | National Convention in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. |
| 2026 | National Convention and Annual General Meeting in Omaha, Nebraska; a new National Executive Committee is elected, led by President Bishop (Dr.) Moses Adejoh. |
| September 2026 | Handover from the outgoing to the incoming executive. |
| November 2026 | New Board of Trustees constituted, chaired by Dr. Sam Alfa; new website launched at igalausa.org. |
What we do
- Uniting the diaspora: chapters, a national member network, mentorship and community gatherings, including outreach to the younger generation born and raised in the US.
- Preserving our culture: promoting Igala heritage, language and traditions.
- Education and scholarships: one national scholarship scheme, supported by every chapter, for Igala students.
- Healthcare and humanitarian aid: medical outreach, supplies and partnerships in Igala land.
How we are governed
The Association is governed by its constitution. A National Executive Committee, elected by the members at the Annual General Meeting, runs the Association day to day. A Board of Trustees of senior members advises the executive and elects its own chairman. Members meet as a General Congress, and chapters elect their own officers.
Get involved
Whether you are Igala or a friend of the Igala people, there are many ways to take part: become a member, join your local chapter, volunteer, or support our work.