Igbo language, culture, take centre stage at 2nd World Igbo Conference
- As UNN moves to save them from extinction
From Geoffrey Anyanwu, Enugu
The need to save Igbo language, culture and heritage from going into extinction would take the centre stage at the 2nd World Igbo Conference holding at the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) on Friday, April 12 and Saturday, April 13.
The conference which is a bold step by the Centre for Igbo Studies, UNN (CIS-UNN) towards saving Igbo language, culture and tradition, would take place both virtually and on-site of the ICVC permanent site behind UBA Hall of Fame and Fidelity Bank, UNN.
Disclosing this yesterday in Enugu at a press conference, the Director, Center for Igbo Studies and Convener CIS-UNN World Igbo Conference 2024, Prof. Chris Agbedo, said that the conference with a theme, “Bridging the Igbo Homeland-Diaspora Disconnect for Transforming our present and future together,” would explore various aspects of Igbo culture, language, heritage, and socio-economic development.
He said, “The 2nd World Igbo Conference aims to explore various aspects of Igbo culture, language, heritage, and socio-economic development. It will feature discussions on five associated themes crucial to the Igbo community, including Igbo language development, Igbo Cultural Village Complex (ICVC), economic empowerment, historical reconnection, and policy and advocacy.
“It offers a unique platform for scholars, researchers, policymakers, and community leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue, exchange ideas, and chart a path for the advancement of the Igbo people worldwide.”
The event which was being organized in collaboration with partners including the Council of Igbo States in Americas (CISA), Igbo World Assembly (IWA), American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID) and Respelling Obeah & Unuchi Foundation, Agbedo said, would also witness as one of its highlights, the unveiling of the 3-D rendition of the Master Plan of the multi-billion naira Igbo Cultural Village Complex (ICVC).
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He said, “The ICVC project, which emerges as a beacon of hope and transformation within the cultural and educational landscape of Igbo land, exemplifies Nigerias commitment to preserving its rich heritage. Through collaborative partnerships, innovative approaches, and a steadfast dedication to empowering communities, the ICVC project paves the way for a more inclusive, equitable, and culturally vibrant future for Ndigbo in particular, and all Nigerians in general.
The Director called on Igbo parents to bring up their children in their mother tongue, warning that it was dangerous to bring up a child with English language in disregard of his mother tongue.
Furthermore, he said, “As the ICVC continues to chart a course towards cultural revival and empowerment, its strategic partnerships with donor agencies, multinational corporations, and Igbo sociocultural organizations serve as pillars of strength and solidarity. By harnessing the collective expertise, resources, and networks of its collaborators, the ICVC amplifies its impact, fosters unity in diversity, and empowers Igbo communities worldwide to embrace their cultural heritage with pride and resilience.
“In the annals of Igbo language and cultural preservation, the iconic name, Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze (Onowu Abagana), stands as a beacon of inspiration and leadership. As the Centre for Igbo Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (CIS UNN) embarks on its Igbo Cultural Village Complex project.”
Agbedo called on all lovers of Igbo language and cultural heritage to participate actively either through zoom links to be provided in due course or come down to the ICVC permanent site for on-site participation.