Igbo entrepreneur and philanthropist, Gaius Chibueze, popularized as Bitcoin Chief, has expressed frustration over the lack of support from wealthy Igbo-owned brands and individuals for projects that promote Igbo culture and identity.
In a passionate statement, he revealed that despite reaching out to 29 prominent Igbo brands for sponsorship of a film project, “Beyond the Landing,” none came forward to offer support.
The movie, which highlights the historic Igbo Landing and celebrates the resilience of the Igbo spirit, has struggled to find backing from within the Igbo community. Yet, the entrepreneur noted, critics were quick to lash out when a non-Igbo filmmaker took on the adaptation of Things Fall Apart.
“Not one single brand agreed to come onboard in seven months,” he wrote, pointing to a larger issue within the Igbo community. “The truth is, as a people, the majority of our people don’t invest in the social good of Ndi Igbo.” He said.
Despite the lack of support, the businessman remains steadfast in his dedication to promoting Igbo culture.
In 2024 alone, he has spent over 200 million Naira sponsoring Igbo-related events and artists, including financial backing for album projects, concerts, and book events.
“All top Igbo-related events that made 2024 beautiful—we sponsored it,” he stated.
The philanthropist, who has been running the cultural initiative @VoiceOfTheEast for 10 years, lamented that he has spent over 10 million Naira monthly on rent and salaries without receiving any support from the community.
“No single Igbo person has said, ‘My brother, well done, take this support,’” he added.
In his efforts to uplift emerging talent, he highlighted his financial support for young Igbo artists, such as Jeriq, Ugoccie, and Nuno, offering them lucrative endorsement deals without negotiation.
He further said that he sent Jeriq one Bitcoin before signing a contract, showcasing his commitment to helping Igbo artists thrive.
“I have also reached out to all upcoming artists or skilled people in the Southeast one time or the other to encourage them,” he said, underscoring his drive to support the Igbo creative industry.
Calling on the Igbo community to embrace a more altruistic mindset, he urged, “We should do better as a people. Even doing as little as a repost of Igbo-related content matters. Ndi Igbo, wake up! Everything must not be about profit!”
His message highlights the need for collective responsibility among wealthy Igbo entrepreneurs to invest in the cultural and social development of their people, prioritizing community growth over immediate profit.
