American Veterans Of Igbo Descent, Others To Meet Over Disconnect

Centre for Igbo Studies, University of Nigeria Nsukka has announced the hosting of the 2nd World Igbo Conference, scheduled to take place virtually from Friday, April 12 to Saturday, April 13, 2024.

The convener, a professor of linguistics and director, Centre for Igbo Studies, Chris Agbedo, who disclosed this during a press conference held in Enugu, explained that the event is being 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 and Unuchi Foundation.

He disclosed that the event with the theme “Bridging the Igbo Homeland-Diaspora Disconnect for transforming our present and future together,” will explore various aspects of Igbo culture, language, heritage, and socio-economic development.

Agbedo added that it would 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.

He noted that it will also offer 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.

“The World Igbo Conference 2024 provides 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.

“By facilitating exchange of ideas, sharing of best practices, and forging new partnerships, the conference strengthens the network of stakeholders committed to advancing the ICVC project and CIS’s overarching mission. 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.

“By fostering a sense of ownership and agency among stakeholders, the conference strengthens the collective impact of the ICVC project and CIS’s educational initiatives. As a learning and research-based institute, CIS is committed to advancing knowledge, scholarship, and cultural understanding through its multifaceted programmes and activities.

“The World Igbo Conference 2024 exemplifies CIS’s core mandate by serving as a nexus for intellectual exchange, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement, furthering the institute’s mission to enrich scholarly discourse and promote cultural heritage preservation. As the World Igbo Conference 2024 is a few hours away, anticipation builds for the transformative impact it will have on the ICVC project, CIS’s research agenda, and the broader landscape of Igbo cultural preservation efforts. With its strategic focus on dialogue, collaboration, and empowerment, the conference reaffirms CIS’s commitment to serving as a leading institution of learning and research dedicated to advancing the cause of Igbo language and culture for generations to come,” he stated.

He stated that the opening ceremonies of the conference will be enlightening and inspiring, with distinguished speakers and guests gracing the occasion.

“Highlights include an opening address by the Chief Host and Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria Nsukka, Prof Charles Arizechukwu Igwe; opening remarks by the Chairman, Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze; a keynote address by the Distinguished Personality of the Day, Dr. Peter Mbah, governor of Enugu State; remarks by Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu (president-general, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide), and Dr. Josephine Uzoamaka Aguoji, president, Council of Igbo States in Americas,” he said.