The Conception of the Vision
The vision for UODF was divinely conceived by a distinguished son of Omuma, a man of great community spirit and philanthropy, Nze High Chief C.E. Okoye, popularly known and respected as Ochendo I of Omuma.
Based in Germany, Nze High Chief Ochendo observed with deep concern the level of disunity among Orlu indigenes abroad, and the numerous challenges facing our people back home — poverty, lack of opportunities for youths, inadequate healthcare for the aged, and limited support for widows and orphans. He believed that if all Umu Orlu diaspora could come together under one strong, united, legally recognized foundation, we could achieve far more than what individuals are doing separately.
He consulted a fellow respected leader and elder statesman in Germany, High Chief Paddy Duruh, the Iroko of Germany — a man widely known for his wisdom, integrity and long-standing service to Ndi Igbo in Germany.
The Historic Meeting & Agreement
When Nze High Chief C.E. Okoye presented the idea of a foundation called Umu Orlu Diaspora Foundation, High Chief Duruh immediately saw the greatness in the vision and embraced it wholeheartedly. Both leaders agreed that:
- Orlu needs unity in diaspora
- Orlu needs a voice abroad
- Orlu needs a structured platform to help the less privileged at home
They made a solemn pledge to work together, to sacrifice their time and resources, to ensure this vision becomes a reality.
Consultation & Mobilization
Both founding fathers began a massive consultation and mobilization exercise, contacting sons and daughters of Orlu Senatorial Zone living in Germany, Austria, Italy, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Qatar, France, Mexico and beyond. WhatsApp groups were created, Zoom meetings were held, and the name Umu Orlu Diaspora Foundation (UODF) was unanimously adopted — children of Orlu living abroad but with our hearts at home.
The Formal Birth — 17th July 2025
After months of planning, prayers and consultations, history was made on the 17th of July, 2025, when UODF was formally created in the diaspora, with its pioneer members present virtually. This date will forever remain a memorable day in the annals of Orlu history — the day our sons and daughters in diaspora decided “Enough is enough — we must develop Orlu together.”
Growth & Legal Recognition
From just two visioners, the foundation has grown to about 30 registered and committed members across different countries — men and women of integrity, professionals, business owners, community leaders and youths. UODF is fully registered under the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Reg No. 9126652) as an incorporated Non-Governmental, Non-Profit Foundation — giving us the power to operate legally and to partner with government agencies, international donors and other NGOs.
