From Felix Ikem, Nsukka
The Centre for Igbo Studies (CIS), University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has concluded plans to host an international conference to discuss how to bridge the gap between the Igbo homeland and the diaspora for a brighter future for the people.
Titled, “Bridging the Igbo Homeland-Diaspora Disconnect for Transforming Our Present and Future Together,” the Conference which will be held virtually and on-site in UNN from Friday, April 12 to Saturday, April 13, 2024, 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 & Unuchi Foundation.
The conference is the 2nd World Igbo Conference by the Center aims to explore various aspects of Igbo culture, language, heritage, and socio-economic development,
A statement by the Director of the Centre and Convener of the conference, Prof Chris Agbedo, noted that it would provide a dynamic platform for scholars, cultural practitioners, policymakers, and community leaders to come together and engage in meaningful dialogue on issues pertinent to Igbo language, culture, and identity.
He stressed that the conference 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.
“It offers 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.
“At the core of the conference lies a bountiful harvest of research presentations and panel discussions, showcasing the latest advancements in Igbo studies and cultural preservation efforts. Scholars and practitioners from around the world converge to share their insights, findings, and innovations, providing valuable insights and inspiration for the ongoing development of the ICVC project and CIS’s research agenda.
“Through interactive workshops, capacity-building sessions, and community engagement activities, the conference empowers participants with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to actively contribute to the preservation and promotion of Igbo language and culture,” he added.
According to the statement, chief host and Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Charles Arinzechukwu Igwe would declare the conference open on Friday 12 April, under the Chairmanship of Onowu Abagana, Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze, a Los Angeles-based medical practitioner and CEO, Victorian Care Medical Group Inc. California, USA chairs the opening ceremonies, while Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State will be the Distinguished Personality of the Day, as well as Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu (President-General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide), among others.
“The keynote speeches will be delivered by Prof C.U.C. Ugorji – Department of Linguistics, University of Benin, Nigeria, and Prof Emeka T. Nwaeze – College of Business, The University of San Antonio, Texas USA, and other lead paper presenters.
“One of the highlights of the conference will be the unveiling of the 3-D rendition of the Master Plan of the multi-billion naira Igbo Cultural Village Complex (ICVC). This will be followed by a fundraiser for the multi-billion Igbo Cultural Village Complex legacy project, as well as the launch of the CIS-ICVC official website, providing a digital platform to showcase the richness of Igbo culture and heritage to a global audience,” he said.
Prof Agbedo said the theme of the World Igbo Conference 2024 encapsulates the collective yearning to bridge the gap between Igbo communities in the homeland and the diaspora, adding that underscores the importance of reclaiming, preserving, and transmitting Igbo cultural heritage across generations and geographical boundaries.
“In essence, it aligns seamlessly with the strategic vision of the Igbo Cultural Village Complex (ICVC) project to create a sanctuary where Igbo language, culture, and identity thrive. Through its thematic focus, the World Igbo Conference 2024 empowers present and future generations of Igbo descent to embrace their cultural heritage with pride and resilience.
“These structures collectively form a vibrant and inclusive environment for learning, cultural exchange, and community development. The ICVC aims to serve as a focal point for reconnecting the Igbo diaspora with their cultural roots and fostering a sense of pride and belonging among all who engage with it.
“In the journey towards preserving and celebrating Igbo language and culture, Centre for Igbo Studies, UNN through her flagship project, ICVC seeks to forge strategic partnerships with prominent Igbo socio-cultural organisations, governments, NGOs, donor agencies, and multinational corporations,” he said.