WORLD IGBO CONGRESS FOUNDATION, INC.
World Igbo Congress Foundation (WICF) is a non-profit corporation and shall operate exclusively for educational and charitable purposes within the meaning of Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or the corresponding section of any future Federal tax code. WICF’s is a resource for Igbo people, businesses, and communities in Nigeria and in the Diaspora working toward prosperity through economic and social justice. Our purpose is to strengthen families, grow a sustainable Igbo economy, cultivate leadership and philanthropy, and foster respect for all. Through concerted efforts and special programs, the WICF will build a strong foundation for the future of the Igbo. Our programs include sending out ambassadors to raise social consciousness about the cause on a local and global level, and to hold fundraising events in order to provide immediate relief and assistance to deserving people regardless of their race, ethnicity, or religion. To maximize our impact on current efforts, we may seek to collaborate with organs of the UN-ECOSOC as well as other non-profit organizations which fall under the 501(c) (3) section of the internal revenue code and are operated exclusively for educational and charitable purposes. At times, per the discretion of the board of trustees, we may provide internships or volunteer opportunities which will provide opportunities for involvement in said activities and programs in order to have a greater impact for change. The business of the WICF will be run by the Board of Trustees under the auspices of WIC Board of Directors.
CHARTER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE WORLD IGBO CONGRESS FOUNDATION, INC.
Purpose
The purpose of the Board of Trustees (BOT) of World Igbo Congress Foundation, Inc. (WICF) is to assist the Chairman, Board and House of Delegates of the World Igbo Congress (WIC), in liaison with the Office of the Executive Director to represent the best interests of WICF, WIC and Ndi Igbo. The primary purpose of the BOT is to ensure WICF is on track with regard to meeting its goals as an arm of WIC, as well as to develop strategies in support of those goals.
Membership and General Responsibilities
The BOT has fiduciary responsibilities for WICF on behalf of WIC in so far as WICF objectives and goals are concerned. The responsibilities of the BOT include, but are not limited to:
- Determining the WICF’s mission and purpose
- Supporting the Executive Director and the WIC Board with the goals of the WIC in mind
- Liaise with the Office of the Executive Director and the WIC Finance Committee and advise the executive on the modalities for institutionalizing the Igbo Renaissance Fund
- Ensuring effective organizational planning of WICF
- Determining which of the WICF’s programs are consistent with its mission and monitoring the effectiveness of these programs
- Securing adequate financial resources for WIC/WICF to fulfill its mission
- Assisting in the development of WICF’s annual budget and ensuring that proper financial controls are in place
- Adhering to legal and ethical standards and norms
- Clearly defining and articulating WICF’s mission, accomplishments and goals to gain support from Igbo communities at home and in the Diaspora and enhancing WIC’s image
- Overall, BOT members have a duty of loyalty to the WIC. While differences of opinion will likely arise, board members should keep disagreements impersonal. By practicing discretion and accepting decisions made on a majority basis, the board can accomplish unity and confidence in its decisions.
BOT Business
The BOT should be open to self-evaluation and regularly review its own composition to ensure constituent representation, board expertise and commitment. WICF BOT will perform its responsibilities through regular meetings and a committee structure that is appropriate for its size and the operations of WICF and WIC. In any case, there shall be a chairman and a secretary. Routine Financial management will be handled by WIC treasurer and financial secretary. BOT members are responsible for arriving at meetings well-prepared and ready to engage in thoughtful dialogue.
Legal Responsibilities
The WICF BOT is ultimately responsible for the performance of WICF in all areas of its work and should ensure that it is in compliance with WIC regulations as well as the laws of the land.
Individual BOT Members’ Responsibilities
Individual members of WICF BOT are required to:
- Attend all BOT and committee meetings and functions, such as special events
- Stay informed about the WIC’s and WICF’s mission, services, policies and programs
- Review agenda and supporting materials prior to board and committee meetings
- Serve on committees or task forces and offer to take on special assignments
- Make a personal financial contribution to the organization
- Inform Ndi Igbo and their friends and associates about the WIC and WICF
- Suggest possible nominees to WIC executive who can make significant contributions to the work of the WICF and the WIC
- Keep up-to-date on developments in the WIC’s field
- Assist the executive of WIC in carrying out its fiduciary responsibilities, such as reviewing the WICF’s annual financial statements
Members
- Professor Mike Echeruo, Chair 315 450 1665 [email protected]
- Mike Ahamba (SAN) 0803 328-1343; 0808 850-9376 [email protected]
- J.O.S. Okeke Co-Chair [email protected] 281 370 0867
- Chief Obi Thompson [email protected] 0803 563 1470
- Leo Egbujobi – Secretary [email protected] ; 608 751 0800
- Barth Nwagbo [email protected]; 813 917 4773; 813 243 9709
- E. Dr. Sam Egwu [email protected] 08039665848
- Chief Simon Ezegbunam [email protected] 202 829-3316
- Eze Iddi Mgbako, [email protected] 908 797-9756; 908 757-6488