From Felix Ikem, Nsukka
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), Prof Charles Igwe, has commended Igbo diaspora groups led by the Council of Igbo States in Americas (CISA) and Igbo World Assembly (IWA) for their support and exceptional contributions towards the establishment of Igbo Cultural Village Complex (ICVC) in the university.
The ICVC was initiated by Prof. Chris Agbedo, Director, Centre for Igbo Studies (CIS), UNN, with the aim of encouraging the study, research, and teaching of the Igbo language, culture, and traditions.
The commendation was contained in an appreciation letter written and signed by the Vice-Chancellor and addressed to Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze (Onowu Abagana), Chairman, Board of Presidents CISA and IWA.
The VC said that the university management was happy with the unwavering support and commitment of CISA and IWA towards the establishment of the ICVC in UNN and that the project when completed would play a pivotal role in the preservation and promotion of language, culture, and heritage.
The letter reads “On behalf of the University of Nigeria, I express I was sincere appreciation and gratitude you are a steam organisation, CISA and IWA for your pioneering support and exceptional contribution towards the establishment of the Igbo village complex, a multi-billion naira legacy project of the CIS-UNN, initiated under the readership of the Director, Prof. Agbedo.
“Under your distinguished leadership and guidance, your organisations have demonstrated unwavering commitment to the preservation and promotion of Igbo culture.
“Your tireless efforts in advancing the noble objectives of the CIS have been instrumental in propelling this transformative initiative forward.
“The generous financial contributions and immeasurable moral support from the Ndigbo Diaspora Group have played a pivotal role in the realisation of the ICVC. Your dedication to the advancement of lgbo studies and culture serves as a shining example of collaboration and partnership between the university and the diaspora community.
“As we join hands to work towards the completion of the multi-billion-naira legacy project, we are inspired by the spirit of unity and the solidarity demonstrated by the Ndigbo diaspora group.
“Your commitment to excellence and innovation has set a standard of excellence for collaborative endeavours in the preservation and celebration of Igbo heritage.
“UNN recognises the mutual benefits of collaboration (Public-Private-Partnership) in the establishment and management of the innovative ICVC project, and looks forward to an M. O. U. that would explicitly define the governance structure and decision-making processes relating to the reconnection hub of Ndigbo,” the VC said.
The Vice-Chancellor also extends the institution’s deepest gratitude to Anakwenze and all the key officers of his noble organisations including but not limited to the current President of CISA, Dr. (Mrs) Josephine Uzoamaka Aguoji, the President Emeriti- Nze Amadiebube Mbaama, Engr James Ogbuka Umekwe, Hon Chudi Asidianya, and other Exco members.
Others are, Emeritus Prof Johnston Akuma Kalu Njoku (TICHA), Engr. Emeka Nwosu, Dr Sidney Louis Davis, Jnr., Chief Oliver Nwankwor, Prof Kevin J. Hales, Emeritus Assoc. Prof Douglas B. Chambers, Ambassador Jean Pillard, Dr Sylvester Onyia, Prof Anthony Ejiofo, and the entire Ndigbo Diaspora Group for their invaluable support and unwavering dedication to the Igbo Cultural Village Complex project.
“Our gratitude is no less due to the Board members and DSG, Subcommittees of CIS-CISA Igbo Cultural Village Secretariat for the successful organisation and hosting of the CIS-UNN’s 2nd World Igbo Conference, held on 12-13 April 2024.
“Your immeasurable and priceless contributions will leave a lasting legacy and serve as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
“Please, be assured of our warmest regards as we look forward to strengthening our partnership and synergy as we work together to promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Igbo people,” he said.