The Anambra State Library has called for the sustenance of Igbo Language through effective teaching, learning and speaking of the Language.
The Director, Anambra Library Services, Dr. Nkechi Udeze made the call while speaking at this year’s celebration of ‘Asusu Igbo Ga Adigide’ organized by the Anambra State library at Prof Kenneth Dike State Central e-library, Awka with the theme, “Onye Aghana Nwanneya”.
Dr. Udeze said that the annual programme was aimed at promoting igbo language and culture in our society.
She urged Ndi Igbo to be proud of their identity wherever they find themselves by speaking the language and wearing their cultural attire.
The Director charged the State Government and other South Eastern Libraries in Nigeria to emulate Anambra State Library and map out a day to celebrate ‘Asusu Igbo Ga Adigide’ nationwide.
In their separate remarks, the traditional ruler of Nibo, Eze Michael Ngene and the traditional ruler of Umuawulu, Igwe Juhel Egwuonwu blamed parents who do not speak Igbo language to their children at home urging them to retrace their steps.
Also the traditional ruler of Umueri, Igwe Ben Emeka commended the effort of the organizers and promised a prize for next years’ competition on essay writing in igbo language.
The Chairman of the occasion and Vice President Ohaneze Ndigbo worldwide, Chief Damian Okeke-Ogene, said people’s attires speak more of their identity, urging Ndigbo to stop looking down on their culture.
He advised Ndigbo to desist from unnecessary killings and crimes as Igbos are not known for such.
The keynote speaker, Prof. Nkechineyere Nwokoye charged students to develop interest in Igbo language, saying that language is the people’s identity.
She listed benefits of speaking Igbo language and how to project it through dressing and conversation among others.
Prof. Nwokoye advised the participants to be their brothers’ keepers and to avoid any thing that would maim others.
The event attracted school children, scholars of Igbo Language, librarians and traditional rulers.
There were competition on Igbo speaking, writing and cultural dance, and the presentation of prizes featured at the event. (MOI)
/Obianuju Umeh
