Onye Aghana Nwanne Ya: No Kith or Kin Should Be Left Behind – An Igbo Wealth Secret
One of the most enduring proverbs in Igbo culture is “Onye aghana nwanne ya,” which translates to “No kith or kin should be left behind.” This principle is deeply rooted in the Igbo way of life, it is an economic philosophy that has shaped the wealth-building strategies of Igbo communities for generations.
At its core, this proverb reflects the sacredness of community collaboration and shared prosperity. In Igbo worldview, wealth is not measured solely by the individual but by the collective. A community thrives when its members support each other, and no one is left behind in their pursuit of success. This ideology has practical applications in the way Igbo communities have historically operated their economic systems—and it continues to provide valuable lessons for today’s generation.
Supporting Local Businesses: The Power of Community Collaboration
The teaching of "Onye aghana nwanne ya" has underpinned the Igbo economic ecosystem for a long time. Before globalization opened doors to international markets, Igbo communities thrived through closely connected networks of traders, artisans, and farmers who supported one another in both commerce and daily life. It was understood that the success of one family or person reflected the prosperity of the entire community, and as such, they were intentional about keeping wealth within.
Patronizing local businesses and working with skilled artisans from within the community was the norm. If a need arose, the first question asked was, “Can my brother or sister fulfill this need?” Only when resources, skills, or expertise were lacking locally would they seek help from outside. This wasn't just about family loyalty, but about making sure that wealth and resources circulated within the community—building it up rather than leaking out.
The strength of this system lies in its reciprocity. Working with one another and supporting each other’s businesses enabled Igbo people to create networks of interdependence. The blacksmith supported the farmer, who in turn supported the weaver, and all were able to prosper together. This closed-loop economic system ensured that wealth remained in the hands of the people who created it, protecting them from external economic forces.
Modern Lessons from this Age Old Wisdom
In today’s world, where we are bombarded by international brands and global consumerism, this principle is more relevant than ever. Small businesses and local entrepreneurs struggle against the convenience of big corporations, yet the strength of community support remains unmatched. The Igbo philosophy of keeping wealth within—of supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs—is a wealth-building secret that can be applied in any economic setting today.
When you purchase from a local vendor rather than a large chain store, you are doing more than buying a product—you are investing in your community. You are helping a local entrepreneur build their dream and in turn, contributing to the economic vitality of your entire community. That same entrepreneur will then support another local business, creating a cycle of economic growth that benefits everyone involved.
When you spend locally, you circulate wealth within your own network. This circulation ensures that more people within the community can thrive and succeed. Communal wealth grows when everyone participates, and individual success is not achieved at the expense of others but in partnership with them. This is the heart of Igbo wealth philosophy—wealth that uplifts the entire community.
How “Onye Aghana Nwanne Ya” Translates to Modern Success
In business, “Onye aghana nwanne ya” means leveraging the power of your network. This can be done through collaboration, mentorship, or direct support, making sure that no one in your community is left behind fosters an environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
This principle is especially important in today’s entrepreneurial culture, where startups and small businesses can feel isolated in their pursuit of growth. Adopting the Igbo mindset of collaboration rather than competition can help entrepreneurs find greater opportunities to scale their businesses.
Mentorship: Providing guidance to young entrepreneurs ensures the skills and wisdom of the older generation are passed down.
Collaboration: Working with other businesses in your community encourages innovation and allows for resource sharing.
Support: Simply choosing to support local vendors and partners keeps wealth circulating within the community and sustains economic growth.
This is the true essence of “Onye aghana nwanne ya”—an understanding that wealth is not an individual pursuit but a collective one.
A Call to Action: What Will You Do for Your Community?
As you reflect on the lessons of “Onye aghana nwanne ya,” I challenge you to take action. How can you ensure that no one in your network is left behind? How can you support the businesses, talents, and resources within your own community?
Start today by intentionally supporting local entrepreneurs. Seek out ways to collaborate with those around you rather than competing. Mentor someone who could benefit from your experience, and most importantly, remind yourself that wealth is a communal experience—and no one should be left behind.
So, ask yourself: Who can I help today? What will you do to make sure no kith or kin is left behind?
F. C. Ogbalu (1965) on Igbo proverbs and states that:
Igbo proverbs are accumulation of Igbo experiences throughout the history of the Igbos. In absence of any written history, they serve as the medium through which much can be learnt about the Igbos. Their past history, their philosophy of life and family structure, their politics and religion can best be learnt through the proverbs (p.5).
