Anambra State’s Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, has issued a call to ndi Igbo (the Igbo people) to actively promote and preserve the Igbo language.
Dr. Mefor made this appeal during the 2024 celebration of “Asusu Igbo ga-adigide” (Igbo Language Will Endure), organized by the Anambra State Library Board.
Addressing attendees, Dr. Mefor highlighted that Igbo is classified as an endangered language and urged parents to stop discouraging their children from speaking Igbo, calling on them to lead efforts to ensure their children are fluent in their mother tongue. He also recommended Igbo audio-visual resources as effective tools to aid children’s learning of the language.
The commissioner further encouraged the state government to prioritize the promotion of Igbo language, suggesting scholarships for Igbo language scholars as a possible incentive. He assured that the Ministry of Information would support initiatives aimed at promoting and preserving Igbo, broadening the language’s reach and importance.
At the event, Acting Director of the Anambra State Library, Mrs. Obioma Obalum, underscored the program’s aim of celebrating Igbo language and culture, reminding attendees that language plays a vital role in personal and cultural identity.
Professor L.O. Ezenweke of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, who served as chairman of the event, applauded the library’s dedication to promoting Igbo heritage and advised students to master both their native dialects and Central Igbo.
In her presentation, themed “Umu ntorobia Igbo: Agwa bụ nma” (Igbo Youth: Good Character is Beautiful), Prof. Nkechinyere Nwokoye from Nnamdi Azikiwe University encouraged young people to uphold positive values, such as honesty, kindness, and forgiveness, and to avoid drug abuse and other negative behaviors.
Traditional ruler Igwe Joel Egwuonwu of Umuawulu added his voice to the call, urging parents to speak Igbo to their children and embrace their cultural identity.
The event featured essay and spelling competitions in Igbo, traditional dances, and a presentation of awards, celebrating the vibrancy of Igbo culture and language.
