Who We Are
The Igbo Association Tampa Bay, Inc. is a cultural, non-political and non-profit organization, which membership comprises of residents who trace their heritage to the Igbo indigenous people of South Eastern Nigeria of present day Abia, Anambra, Delta, Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo and Rivers states of Nigeria.
The Igbo people in the Tampa Bay area got together in the summer of 1996 to launch the local Igbo Association, to unify the Igbos in the Tampabay area and build an integrated Igbo community and gathering place in Tampa Bay serving as both a cultural anchor and a hub for economic empowerment and political influence for generations to come.
Mission Statement
To preserve and project Igbo culture, foster unity, and create a welcoming destination for all by building the Igbo cultural center.
Community Benefits
- Cultural education (language classes, storytelling, traditional music/dance).
- Social support (networking, mentorship, family services).
- Economic empowerment (business showcases, job fairs).
- Intercultural exchange (inviting wider Tampa Bay residents to learn and participate).
- Create political and financial awareness, community development and generational wealth awareness.
Vision for the Gathering Place
- A physical center with event halls, classrooms, and a library/museum of Igbo history.
- A shared kitchen for traditional foods and communal meals.
- Outdoor space for festivals like New Yam Festival or Masquerade celebrations.
- Technology-equipped rooms for youth programs and professional development.
- Generate significant income from hall rental and establish a $1M endowment fund
- Offer significant scholarship up to doctorate level for our children
- Recruit and hire full time staff to carry out above objectives
- Showcase Igbo cuisine, clothing and lifestyles.
Integration Strategy
- Partner with local governments, universities, and cultural organizations.
- Offer bilingual programs (English–Igbo) to bridge generations.
- Create inclusive events that welcome both Igbo and non-Igbo residents.
- Offer mentorship programs to youths in the community
Our Services
Discover a range of services tailored to foster community, cultural awareness, and support for our members and local initiatives.
- Cultural education and projection/ propagation of Igbo culture and heritage
- Economic empowerment and wealth creation
- Political participation and empowerment
- Educational support and scholarships
- Partner with Local Govt and universities for integration, community development and redevelopment
- Mentorship program for our youth
- Creation of $1M endowment to fund research and our outreach activities
Our Projects
Explore our impactful community projects and initiatives that continue to bring the Igbo community together.
As a charitable organization, we believe in, and strive towards giving back to the host communities. To this end, the Association participates in several annual community outreach programs, including Paint Your Hearts Out Tampa Bay, Feeding Tampa Bay, Back to School giveaways, Picnics and the Igbo Cultural Day.
Memberships of Igbo Association of Tampa Bay Inc [IATB] shall be open to the following person(s) resident within Tampa Bay area and its environment:
- Any Igbo person born in Nigerian or anywhere in the world residing in the Tampabay area.
- Any non-Igbo person married to an Igbo person residing in the Tampabay area.
- Any naturalized person of Nigerian who adopts Igbos as his or her ethnicity and resides in the Tampabay area.
- Any person who subscribes to the aims, objectives and aspirations of Igbo Association of Tampa Bay as contained in the constitution.
We have a one-time registration fee of $50 and an annual dues of $120. Fill out the registration form, pay your dues and become part of a growing and fiercely motivated community in Tambabay area.
What Our Members Say
Hear from members about their experiences and the impact of our association on their lives and the community.
"This association has helped me understand more about my roots and has brought my family closer to our culture."
"Joining the Igbo Association has connected me with others who share my heritage and has been a source of great support."
"The assistance and camaraderie I found here have been invaluable, especially in challenging times."
"Through various events and activities, I've learned a lot about my culture and made lasting friendships."
