CIS-UNN Warns Against Igbo Language Extinction, Calls for Action at Upcoming World Igbo Conference
The Centre for Igbo Studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (CIS-UNN), aims to prevent the decline of the Igbo language through the upcoming 2nd World Igbo Conference, focusing on bridging the gap between Igbo communities in the homeland and the diaspora.
Mary Nwaeze 
The Centre for Igbo Studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (CIS-UNN) has raised concerns about the potential extinction of the Igbo language. During a press conference in Enugu, the center emphasized its commitment to preserving the Igbo language and warned of its gradual decline among younger generations. The center blamed this decline on parents not teaching the mother tongue to their children.
Prof. Chris Uchenna Agbedo, the Director of CIS-UNN, announced the upcoming 2nd World Igbo Conference, scheduled for April 12 and 13, 2024, at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). The conference, themed “Bridging the Igbo Homeland-Diaspora Disconnect for transforming our present and future together,” aims to bridge the gap between Igbo communities in the homeland and the diaspora. This event will address key themes like Igbo language development, cultural preservation, socio-economic empowerment, and policy advocacy.
Prof. Agbedo stressed the importance of teaching children the Igbo language from a young age, highlighting the risks of raising them solely with English. He also noted the efforts of individuals and groups such as Onowu Abagana, Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze, and the CISA-IWA Diaspora Group in supporting the establishment of the CIS-UNN Igbo Cultural Village Complex project.
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The conference will feature collaborations with various partners, including the Council of Igbo States in Americas (CISA), Igbo World Assembly (IWA), American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID), and Respelling Obeah & Unuchi Foundation. These partnerships aim to bring together scholars, policymakers, and community leaders to foster meaningful dialogue on key issues related to Igbo culture and language preservation.
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The CIS-UNN urges all enthusiasts of Igbo culture and language to participate in the conference, emphasizing the importance of collective action to prevent the extinction of the Igbo language. The center hopes that the conference will help reestablish the historical connections between Igbo people across geographical boundaries, ensuring the continued transmission of their rich heritage to future generations.
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