Established in 1995, Abiriba Communal Improvement Union North Carolina’s chapter was organized in Raleigh to continue the mission and values of the organization for those living in NC. To serve as a voice to all, ACIU was created to serve as a sense of identity and create social and economic development in Abiriba.

Since its creation, the NC chapter provided a platform to unite people from the Abiriba community. Over the years, we’ve continued to uphold traditional customs and events, such as Izari Afa, Igwa Mang, and Ime Uche. To some people, Abiriba may be viewed as another village in Nigeria. As part of Igboland, this village is known to be a unique kingdom with a rich culture and history.

As this organization continues to grow, we strive to partner with other chapters throughout the US and members internationally to put forth projects and service opportunities to improve and support the community in Abiriba. As our motto states, “One Community, One Future”.

History

The ACIU Women’s North Carolina chapter was launched in 2015. As an empowering moment in ACIU NC’s history, the establishment of this chapter created a platform for the women of Abiriba to create their own agenda. They have made it a priority to serve, support, and nurture the potential of every person of Abiriba as well their own communities here in NC. Since December 2016, the NC Women have hosted their annual Youth Project event. With vision focused on women and children, during this community outreach program members also give out self-care packages to the undeserving population in Abiriba.

Giving Back To The Communitt

ACIU Women’s North Carolina chapter have also been participated in local community engagement opportunities such as volunteering with the Raleigh Rescue Mission and donating toiletries to InterAct. As many Nigerians continue to move to America, this group has also created a safe space for new immigrant women and mothers to commune in Raleigh, North Carolina. Over the years, the women of this chapter have been an anchor support for the ACIU NC Youth chapter, by ensuring that they provide the proper knowledge and resources necessary for the youth to thrive. Whether it’s through providing service or support, the commitment and organization from this wonderful group of women has allowed this chapter to be an exemplary model for other ACIU-NA Women’s chapters.

From what initially started as a dance group in 2010, the next generation of ACIU NC are coming together to continue the legacy of what this organization stands for. The North Carolina Youth chapter comprises children as young as 5 years old to young adults as old as 30. Our goal is to ensure that the young people understand the value of what it means to be from Abiriba.

Although things are changing throughout Nigeria, many North Carolina’s younger members are first- generation Americans. This may seem like a disadvantage, it has motivated us to make it part of our mission to learn about our heritage and history.

Whether it’s a dance, song or greeting, there are certain practices that Abiriba people traditionally do. It’s through those actions that make this kingdom unique. Here in North Carolina, we have more children compared to other North American chapters. In order to increase prticipation, we encourage our young adults to take on leadership roles. By bring new ideas and getting involved in the North Carolina community we will continue to move this organization forward. It’s our time to step up and shine.