UNN Organises World Conference to Save Igbo Language, Culture from Extinction

Gideon Arinze in Enugu

The Centre for Igbo Studies at the University of Nigeria Nsukka (CIS-UNN) is set to hold the second edition of the World Igbo Conference to preserve the Igbo language, culture and heritage from going into extinction.

The conference, slated for April 12 and 13, will take place both virtually and on-site at the Igbo Cultural Village Complex (ICVC) permanent site behind the UBA Hall of Fame in UNN. Addressing journalists in Enugu yesterday ahead of the event, the Director of the Centre for Igbo Studies, Chris Agbedo, said the theme of the conference: ‘Bridging the Igbo Homeland-Diaspora Disconnect for Transforming our Present and Future Together’, is aimed at exploring various aspects of Igbo culture, language, heritage, and socio-economic development.

He said: “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.”

Agbedo, who doubles as convener of the conference, said it would offer 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.

According to him, “The conference, which is organised in collaboration with partners, including the Council of Igbo States in Americas (CISA), Igbo World Assembly (IWA), American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID), Respelling Obeah and Unuchi Foundation, would also witness the unveiling of the 3-D rendition of the Master Plan of the multi-billion-naira ICVC.”