In a bid to preserve the rich Igbo language, culture, and history from fading away, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) is taking a significant step.
Their Centre for Igbo Studies (CIS) is initiating the construction of the Igbo Cultural Village Complex (ICVC) within the university premises. This complex aims to foster the study, research, and teaching of the Igbo language, history, culture, and tradition.
The CIS, established by the university a decade ago, envisions itself as a hub for intellectual resources dedicated to Igbo studies. Through various means such as research, teaching, conferences, and seminars, the centre aims to advance the understanding of Igbo heritage for students, scholars, and the public.
Recently, the 2nd World Igbo Conference 2024 took place, blending virtual and on-site participation at the ICVC permanent site near the UBA Hall of Fame, UNN. The theme, ‘Bridging the Igbo homeland – diaspora disconnect for transforming our present and future together,’ highlighted the collaborative effort between CIS-UNN and several Igbo organizations, including CISA, IWA, Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, AVID, Respelling Obeah, and Unuchi Foundation.
During the conference’s opening ceremony, Prof. Charles Igwe, the vice-chancellor of UNN, urged all Igbo individuals to support the revitalization of Igbo studies and the transformation of Igboland. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts in realizing the potential of the Igbo people and their homeland.
Prof. Igwe stressed the significance of the ICVC project as a cornerstone in preserving the Igbo cultural heritage. He solicited moral and financial backing for the project, affirming the commitment of his administration to support the Center for Igbo Studies.
Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze, chairman of CISA, echoed the call for support, emphasizing the urgency of preserving the Igbo language and culture. He highlighted the importance of initiatives like the ICVC project in achieving this goal.
The conference provided a platform for meaningful dialogue among scholars, policymakers, and community leaders, aiming to advance the interests of the Igbo people globally.
The event also celebrated the visionary leadership of individuals like Prof. Chris Agbedo and Onowu Abagana, whose dedication to Igbo cultural preservation has been exemplary. Their efforts have laid the groundwork for the ICVC project, which promises to be a transformative space for Igbo language, culture, and heritage.
With an estimated cost of N5 billion, the ICVC project envisions facilities such as an amphitheatre, guest house, traditional Igbo homestead, ICT and resource centre, library, and administrative block. It seeks to empower future generations with a deep appreciation for their cultural heritage and serve as a focal point for reconnecting the Igbo diaspora with their roots.
The unveiling of the ICVC’s master plan marked a significant milestone, signalling the beginning of fundraising efforts to bring this ambitious project to fruition.
