Group Launches Book to Mitigate Igbo Language Extinction

Following United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) prediction that the Igbo Language of Eastern Nigeria may become extinct by 2050, the Lagos chapter of not for profit organisation, Ọgbakọ Asusu Igbo, has launched a book on Igbo language book to mitigate Igbo language extinction.

The President of the Association, Duke Ezeh, stated that the 135 page document would serve as an lntroduction to the language for young Igbo learners and a manual for older learners of the language while preserving the cultural norms of Igbo speaking people all over the world.

Speaking during the public presentation of the book, Ezeh noted that the production of the book is
crucial to the revitalization of the Igbo language adding that it is an avenue for indigenous Igbo people and non Igbo people to learn the language. He said: “Language allows us to share our ideas, thoughts and feelings with others. It also has the power to build and tear down societies.

“It is against the background of the UNESCO prediction that we formed the body to prevent the death of the Igbo language. We encourage parents to speak Igbo to their children at home and get private Igbo language teachers for their children. We also organize a five-week summer holiday Igbo language class for our children in some designated centres in Lagos every year”

Unveiling the book, lawyer and chieftain of the group, Uche Obi, commended the association for the thoughtfulness and diligence in producing a book to help
people learn how to write and speak the Igbo language.

The book titled “Kà Ànyi Mu Asusu Igbọ” (Let us Learn Igbo Language), covers basic numerals, names of objects and animal, proverbs, the Igbo culture and
mores, folktales and Igbo cosmology.

Prominent corporate individual, business men and culture enthusiasts attended the event. Ezeh shared that in 2024, the Association plans to increase the number of the centres
for Igbo language study in Lagos adding that the book will be available for purchase on Amazon to reach Igbo enthusiasts all over the world.