In an effort to ensure that the rich Igbo language, culture, and history are preserved and not allowed to go into extinction, Anambra’s finest and billionaire philanthropist, Chief Dr. Ikenna Okafor KSS (Ide Akwaeze, Chinyelugo Anaocha), through Anambra Central People’s Forum, is set to build the Prof. Pita Ejiofor Centre for Igbo Language Studies and Cultural Development in Anambra State. This initiative will encourage the study, research, and teaching of Igbo language, history, culture, and tradition.
The Prof. Pita Ejiofor Centre for Igbo Language Studies and Cultural Development was designed and initiated by the Anambra Central People’s Forum (a pan-Igbo socio-cultural organization championing the revival of the dying Igbo mother tongue) with the vision to serve as an intellectual resource center for the study of Igbo history, language, and culture. It will cater to students, scholars, and the public through critical research, teaching, conferences, seminars, symposia, workshops, occasional public lectures, and other forms of knowledge delivery.
Highlighting the significance of the center, the Chairman of the Anambra Central People’s Forum, Hon. Achebe Chris, said, “The centrality of the Prof. Pita Ejiofor Centre for Igbo Language Studies and Cultural Development cannot be overemphasized, as it serves as a cornerstone in our ongoing effort to safeguard our rich cultural heritage for generations to come. It is through initiatives like this that we can ensure the preservation and celebration of our identity as Igbo people.”
Beaming with hope and fulfillment, Achebe commended the project benefactor, Chief Dr. Sir Ikenna Okafor (Ide Akwaeze, Chinyelugo Anaocha), for his support for the Igbo Centre and his efforts in preserving and promoting the Igbo language and cultural heritage.
“I extend my sincere appreciation to Chief Okafor, whose steadfast commitment to Igbo cultural heritage is woven into the fabric of his community, Akwaeze, and beyond. As a custodian of tradition and a tireless advocate for cultural preservation, his uncommon benevolence has inspired generations of Ndigbo to embrace their cultural identity with pride and reverence. This is truly commendable,” he said.
According to the association’s chairman, the Cultural Complex would cost about N150,000,000 to actualize, as it would house:
- Igbo Language Research, Teaching, and Training Centre
- Computer/Information Technology Centre
- Igbo Library/Igbo Curriculum Development Centre
- Conference Hall
- Borehole Water Facilities
- Cafeteria
In a virtual remark, Hon. Achebe urged Igbos to join hands in promoting and preserving the Igbo language and cultural heritage. He frowned at the practice where Igbo parents raise their children with English and other foreign languages at the expense of their mother tongue, describing such an attitude as abnormal.
“Countries in Europe and other parts of the world preserve and guard their cultures and languages jealously, but when it comes to our Igbo language and culture, you see Igbo parents training their children in English. This is sickening and very disheartening.
“Nevertheless, we will never give up in our effort to save the Igbo language and cultural heritage from going into extinction, as already predicted by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO),”_ he said.
Also speaking, Prof. Pita Ejiofor, former Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, in his virtual remark, commended the Anambra Central People’s Forum for designing and initiating the landmark Igbo Centre. He also applauded Chief Dr. Sir Ikenna Okafor (Ide Akwaeze, Chinyelugo Anaocha) for his committed efforts in promoting and preserving the Igbo language, culture, and tradition.
Prof. Pita Ejiofor, while expressing gratitude for Chief Dr. Ikenna Okafor’s philanthropy, described him as a worthy brother, family friend, and a passionate supporter of Igbo culture.
Earlier in his commendation remarks, Ejiofor lauded Chief Dr. Ikenna Okafor’s dedication to community service, describing his philanthropic contribution to the historic Igbo Centre as a testament to his exemplary commitment to community development and humanitarian impact in society.
“I commend the Chairman of Anambra Central People’s Forum, Hon. Achebe, who is the brain behind the envisaged Igbo Cultural Centre. Keep it up,” he said.
