Urhobo Association of North Carolina History

The Urhobo people are an ethnic group located in southern Nigeria, primarily in Delta and Bayelsa States, where the Urhobo language is predominantly spoken. The Urhobo population is estimated to be approximately seven million.

The Urhobo Association of North Carolina is a nonprofit organization founded on July 8, 2009, by individuals of Urhobo descent from Delta State, Nigeria, who reside in Raleigh and the surrounding areas of North Carolina. The Association was established to unite members of the Urhobo community, promote solidarity and cultural awareness, preserve Urhobo heritage and identity, and support community service initiatives for the collective well-being of its members and the broader community.

The origins of the Association can be traced back to December 2008, during a year-end gathering hosted at the residence of Mr. Emmanuel and Mrs. Marian Dekpe. During this event, several individuals of Urhobo heritage came together to celebrate and recognized the need for a more formal and structured platform through which their culture could be preserved, promoted, and made more visible within their local community.

The founding members of Urhobo Association of North Carolina include Ọsẹ Godwin Omodeko, Olorogun Sunday Akpoduado, Mrs. Eseoghene Akpoduado, Olorogun Frank Moniedafe, Omiregwa Frank Torere, Omiregwa Emmanuel Dekpe, Mrs. Marian Dekpe, Chief Sir Blessing Ukochovwera, Dr. Chief Louisa Ukochovwera, Engr. Joseph Emuobor, Mrs. Marty Emuobor, Ms. Rita Udjoh, Ms. Joy Johnson, Omiregwa Lemmy Ogah, Mr. Efe Adegor, Engr. Dumuola Jack and Mrs. Ufuoma Jack.

Mission Statement

UANC's mission is to unite people of Urhobo descent and others who identify with Urhobo people and culture abroad and at home for the promotion of human development and Urhobo culture and ideals. The Association shall promote charitable, scientific, literary and educational projects in North Carolina and Nigeria.

To this end, the motto of the Association in Urhobo language shall be “Okugbe,Egba, Voyan  Robaro” which translates in English as “Unity, Strength and Progress.

Charity Work

We also believe in giving back to our community and making a positive impact through various charitable initiatives.

Vision Statement

Vision for the Urhobos in North Carolina

To foster the unity and ability of all the Urhobos in diaspora to achieve our common goal through education, support & social activities.